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October 2015 Issue 758

CRUISING THE TOP END Crystal-clear pools, hot springs and striking gorges: dive into Australia’s Top End

ROCK THE BOAT Cruising around the Bay of Islands

T S E B E H T F O BEST

re coming! a s d r a w A k c a Golden Backp 5 1 0 2 e th , e pagne on ic Get the Cham + SHARK CAGE DIVING HOBART CAREERS ADVICE BIG TRIP TO FIJI

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EDITORIAL Editor James Clark james.clark@tntmagazine.com DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Design and production manager Lisa Ferron SALES Sales manager Jaqui Ward jaqui.ward@tntmagazine.com

FROM THE EDITOR

STARTRACK MEDIA LTD CEO Kevin Ellis Chairman Ken Hurst PUBLISHER Startrack Media Ltd PRINTED BY Spotpress PICTURES iStock | TNT Images | Supplied Cover image: Tourism NT TNT Magazine online tntdownunder.com

WHERE TO GET TNT

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

TNT Magazine has been going for a whopping 32 years, so we’ve got a pretty firm grip on all things travel in Australasia and beyond. In no month is this better demonstrated than November, when we hold the Golden Backpack Awards.

And the Golden Backpack Awards? Although this is a trade event held on November 5 in Sydney, what this means for you is that any tour operator, hostel, campervan rental company, favourite airline, best cultural experience and so on that proudly displays the Golden Backpack Award logo has received the seal of approval from fellow backpackers, as these epic awards are voted for by the people. Enclosed is our list of finalists and it’s massive, but you can use it when hitting the road around Oz and New Zealand, knowing that the included are the best when it comes to backpacking.

Sharks may not have had the best press this year, but we love getting out there and exploring the ocean. Check out our guide to shark cage diving, the companies included have good safety standards, great reputations and come recommended by TNT readers (p36).

The Northern Territories has everything that the outdoor enthusiast could dream of.

We’ve put together a top ten guide (p44) of the very best activities. Trust us when we say you’ll need more than a couple of weeks to get through them all.

Tasmania has a lot to offer the backpacker and Hobart is the home to some of the Island’s tastiest offerings (p38), but Launceston can also hold its weight and compete for the jewel in Tasmania’s crown (p41).

Fiji is made up of 332 islands. Sounds overwhelming, but whether it’s diving, partying or hooking up, we’ve made it easier for you to choose (p82).

And finally for this month you’ve no doubt heard about the beautiful Bay of Islands (p64). If you’ve not tried night kayaking well now’s your chance to give it ago.

James

james.clark@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.

Adelaide to Flinders

Australia’s best beaches

Milford Sound

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THIS MONTH DIARY 6 FOOD & DRINK 10 PUBS

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GIGS 16 GOLDEN BACKPACKS

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INTERVIEW

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TRAVEL TOP 5: SHARK CAGE DIVING 34 OZ: HOBART

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TOP 10: NORTH’N TERRITORY 34 NZ: BAY OF ISLANDS

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BIG TRIP: FIJI

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ON THE COVER 50

NEW ZEALAND LISTINGS

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CAREERS 88

GOLDEN BACKPACKS

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the 2015 Golden Backpacks are happening real soon and if you haven’t voted yet - what are you waiting for! Do it NOW!

SHARK CAGE DIVING

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If your trip to Oz isn’t complete without coming face-to-face with a Great White then take a look at our guide to shark cage diving

CHECK OUT TASSIE

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Don’t leave Tassie off your ‘must visit’ list whilst in Oz, you’d be missing out on a whole lot of fun

TOP END TRAVELS

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We have the low down on the best spots in the Northern Territory to take the plunge and wash off the dust

ROCK THE BOAT

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Cruising around the Bay of Islands is one sweet way to spend the day

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Photos: Fairfax Media, Rodney Fox, istock and Margaret River Gourmet Escape

AUSTRALIA LISTINGS

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Join the feast November 1 – 30, 2015

The Age Good Food Month presented by Citi is on its way. A month-long celebration of the ultimate dining experiences including Hats Off Dinners, Let’s Do Lunch and NEW events such as Sweetfest, Melbourne’s first Ramen Rave, Step up to the Plate, Sunday Sessions and more. Featuring international star talent Ivan Orkin, Diego Munoz, Chris Ying and Jonathon Gold.

View the program goodfoodmonth.com @goodfoodmonth #jointhefeast #goodfoodmonth

PRESENTED BY

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OUR TOP PICKS MELBOURNE FESTIVAL

SMH GOOD FOOD MONTH

Oct 18 - 25, Melbourne

Until Oct 31 Sydney

Australia’s premier celebration of art and culture. Each Festival brings an unparalleled feast of theatre, dance, music, visual arts, film and outdoor events to Melbourne each October.

A month of appetising food and drinks events awaits you at Good Food Month, chefs, restaurants, farmers, wine experts and artisan food producers all go on show.

You know you want to go!

Times vary Get a program events going on all over the city. melbournefringe.com.au

Times vary St Mary’s Cathedral,

VAR

FREE

St Mary’s Road goodfoodmonth.com

MUST DO THE AGE GOOD FOOD MONTH Nov 1 - 31, Melbourne

Everything from iconic Night Noodle Markets to an all-star cast of world-class chefs celebrating everything from Hat off dinners, to cool bars, great pubs and fine produce.

Expect food, drink and more food and drink. There’s no need to go hungry in Melbourne this month, you might even need to consider a quick detox before the Christmas and New Year celebrations commence.

Photo: Fairfax Media

FREE

Various street food stalls, bars & restaurants melbourne.goodfoodmonth.com

TASTE OF MELBOURNE

Nov 12 - 15, Melbourne FREE

Over 60 signature dishes available for you to create your own tasting menu as you browse artisan stalls, mingle with award-winning chefs, or just sit back enjoy your meal and glass of wine as you listen to live entertainment.

5.30pm-10pm Albert Park, Melbourne tasteofmelbourne.com.au

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CREDIT UNION CHRISTMAS PAGEANT

AUSTRALIA’S INTERNATIONAL 3-DAY EVENT

SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL ART SERIES

Nov 14 Adelaide

Nov 19-22, Melbourne

Nov 20-Mar 15, Sydney

More than 330,000 people line the 3.3km route each year to watch fairy tale floats, 15 marching bands, dancing groups and enjoy the largest Aussie pageant. If this doesn’t get you in the festive mood nothing will.

Adelaide’s parklands host this Olympic standard equestrian competition including dressage, show jumping and cross-country. This is a real pull for Australia’s equestrian lovers.

Sydney’s leading art museums the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Art Gallery NSW combine for the Sydney International Art Series to present two outstanding exhibitions each year.

Times vary Adelaide city centre streets cupageant.com.au

From 10am Adelaide’s Parklands australian3de.com.au

Times vary Mount Panorama, Sydney artgallery.nsw.gov.au

FREE

VAR

FREE

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Photo: Margaret River Gourmet Escape

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MARGARET RIVER GOURMET ESCAPE Nov 22 - 25 Melbourne Known for its world-class surf, beautiful beaches, quality vineyards and food, will play host to chefs, foodies and wine critics, with an extensive festival program of intimate food events to showcase the best wine and produce from around Western Australia.

Times vary Get a program events going on all over the city gourmetescape.com.au

AUSTRALIAN MASTERS

EMIRATES AUS OPEN GOLF

Nov 20-23, Gold Coast

Nov 1 - 31,Melbourne

Attracting some of the world’s best golfers, the Masters is a truly international event.

The annual presentation of the gold jacket has become a notable tradition in Australian golf. Any real golf enthusiast wouldn’t miss this golfing event.

The Emirates Australian Open is Australia’s most prestigious golf championship and the one every player wants to win.

It has a rich history and always draws the nation’s best players home to compete for the Stonehaven Cup.

$24

10.30am Huntingdale Golf Club, Windsor Avenue, Melbourne australianmasters.com.au

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4.30pm-8pm

Australian

Golf Club, Kensington australianopengolf.com.au

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Photo: Fun Run Pink and Triathlon Pink

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PERTH

GOLD COAST

CAIRNS

FUN RUN PINK NOV 8 / 2PM REGISTRATION / VARIOUS Triathlon Pink is an all-female triathlon series which helps raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Whether you are taking on the short or ultra-course enjoy the achievement.

GOLD COAST MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL NOV 1 / 10AM - 4PM / $5 The Festival offers a cultural experience that people of all ages will enjoy. Great fun and low cost.

TRAVELLING FILM FSTIVAL OCT 30 - NOV 3 / 7PM - 10PM / $14 The Travelling Film Festival returns to Cairns with an exciting new collection of films for everyone.

HBF Stadium, Stephenson Avenue, Mount Claremont

triathlonpink.com.au

HARNESS RACING NOV 13 / 6AM - 10.30PM / $12 Don’t expect people running a round in gimp suits. Ten races with some of the best horses from Oz and New Zealand.

Oakover Grounds, 14 Yukich Close, Middle Swan gloucesterpark.com.au

COMEDY SHACK @ RYDGES NOV 27 / 8PM - 10PM / £25 The comedians at Comedy Shack love making people laugh and they would love to make you laugh at their next show. You should go.

Rydges Perth, 815 Hay St thecomedyshack.com.au

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Bundall Road, Corner of Crombie Avenue, theartscentregc.com.au Bundall

MELBOURNE CUP NOV 3 / 4PM / $59 Experience Melbourne Cup at the Southport Yacht Club. Watch the race that stops the nation on the big screens and eat and drink the afternoon through.

1 Macarthur Parade, Main Beach southportyachtclub.com.au

LEGENDS LIVE NOV 21 / 7PM til late / $65 Get ready to dance, party and reminisce with some of the biggest and best Australian ‘80s stars. We know you weren’t there the first time round, but it’s a lot of fun and we bet you’d love it. Broadbeach Island, Broadbeach

Event Cinemas Cairns City, 108 Grafton sff.org.au

Street

TWILIGHT CAR BOOT SALE NOV 21 / 7 - 3PM - 7PM / FREE They plan the car boot sale for a little later in the day when it’s a bit cooler, so you can shop for longer. If you’re lucky they’ll be plenty of sellers here, offering you Christmas gifts at a steal.

St Peter’s Anglican Church, Poolwood Road stpeterscairns.com

CAIRNS MULCH CHRISTMAS PARTY RACE DAY NOV 28 / 11AM / $10 Get into the festive spirit with Santa, elves and five races all in the name of Christmas. It’s said to be an unforgettable day so don’t get too drunk.

Cannon Park Racecourse Cairnsjockeyclub.com.au

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MELBOURNE

SYDNEY

SEXPO NOV 5 - 8 / VARIOUS / $15+ SEXPO – Health, Sexuality and Lifestyle Exhibition is the world’s largest adult lifestyle exhibition. The event is fun, vibrant, and educational.

It’s a celebration of all lifestyles and sexualities under one roof. The entertainment is second to none, with international performers, male and female stage acts, hypnotists, comedians, lingerie parades and the world famous Amateur Strip Competition. See you there.

STADIUM SUPER TRUCK OCT 31 / 6.30PM / $44+ Robby Gordon’s Stadium Super Trucks are returning to Australia this October.

The 10 high-powered, off-road trucks will be flying high and racing like mad. The Stadium Super Trucks are purpose-built machines with 600 horsepower that are capable of reaching speeds in excess of 200kph and jumping almost 10 metres in the air. Don’t miss out on this automotive spectacle.

Spotless Stadium, Sydney Showground

Melbourne Exhibition Centre sexpo.com.au

MELBOURNE MUSIC WEEK NOV 13 - 20 / VARIOUS/ VARIOUS MMW is an eight-day program of imaginative events dedicated to celebrating and supporting the city’s world-famous music scene. Inspired by the boundless creativity of Melbourne, MMW is the only event of its kind in Australia that offers a unique model of co–production with the music sector to directly support its industry.

Driven by its vision as a uniquely local event, MMW supports and celebrates Melbourne’s contemporary music scene by partnering with a range of independent promoters, venues, labels and businesses.

Various around Melbourne thatsmelbourne.com.au

COLOR RUN NOV 22 / 2PM / $64+ The color run is known amongst Melbournites as the happiest 5k run on the planet. is a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness and individuality. Now the single largest event series in the world, The Color Run has exploded since the first event. Last year there were more than 300 color runs across the world and I bet by the end of this year there will have been more. There’s a good fun after party at the end, just a way of saying thanks for all your colourful hard work. Wear white for the full effect. Flemington Racecourse thecolorrun.com.au

premier.ticketek.com.au

DEEPAVALI FESTIVAL 2015 OCT 3 / 11 - 9PM / FREE Expect lots of colour and lights, food, dance, music, rides, fireworks and entertainment. What it may lack in alcohol, it makes up for in other ways.

Come on, you can’t be a drunk all the time! Try something culturally outstanding.

Parramatta Park deepavali.com.au

2015 JAPANESE FILM FESTIVAL NOV 5 - 15 / - 10 PM / $18.50 The festival will open with Bakuman, it’s a comedy about two teens with dreams to make it big in the world of manga, beat their rival and get the girl. A familiar story! The film is said to delight audiences with its brilliant portrayal of the cut throat world of the manga industry, featuring artwork that will delight fans and artists. Rounding out the festival on closing night will be 100 Yen Love, the incredible indie feature film from Masaharu Take, and Japan’s official entry for Best Foreign Language Film at the upcoming 88th Academy Awards. There are forty films being shown in total, too many for us to mention here. Take a look on hte website for a full program of amazing Japanese entertainment. Have you ever seen the Ring?

r o f n i s o h W n i y e n Syd ? r e b Novem send a tagged "selfie" with "I'm IN" to our facebook page to be a part of the best Adventure Travel Holiday EVER!!

Event Cinemas, 505-525 George Street japanesefilmfestival.net

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SYDNEYEATS

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BITE SIZE THE ROOK Sydney rooftop cocktail bar The Rook serves up snappy cocktails and has a concise menu. They do have daily specials though, and if you ask nicely, you might be able to order off-menu and get a Calligraphy: Bols Genever, sweet vermouth, pomegrante, grapefruit, and maraschino liqueur. Yum. therook.com.au

RUM DIARIES This place is something of a Bondi Road institution. The interior is all dark wood panelling, high-backed leather chairs and gaping fireplaces, exactly how a captain’s quarters on a 17th-century Spanish galley might look. As the name suggests it is big on rum cocktails. therumdiaries.com.au

SPICE I AM Sydney

So many restaurants are full of fancy decor, chandeliers and bright lighting. I often think it’s a distraction to take your attention away from the mediocre food that arrives at your overpriced table. Not so at the Surry Hills Spice I Am. The interior is bland it’s the sort of place you could walk past and not take much notice of, until you see the people, they’re everywhere.

THE GRUB I had the pad thai with prawns. It’s not too sweet, yet the noodles still manage to take on the caramelised characteristics of their sauce. The prawns are fresh, straight from the sea and full of flavour. The crisp rice salad heady with the scent and taste of kaffir lime, it’s tossed with crumbled Thai pork sausage, a good dose of chilli and ground peanuts.

BEHIND THE BAR Cocktails, Asian beers, wines and ciders a plenty and they won’t kick out as soon as you’ve finished your food.

BILL PLEASE Including drinks you’re looking at around $50, but they also do deals throughout the day if you’re looking for something cheaper.

VERDICT Authentic, you do still feel a bit like you’re in Bangkok with the fast pace, lively street outside and the waitress writing down everything in Thai. Would I go again? Yes, definitely and I’m going to try Sujet’s (that’s the owner) other venues as well in Balmain, Darlinghurst and there’s another one in Surry Hills as well. I don’t plan to go hungry again for a while.

Photos: The Bucket List

THE SCENE

THE BUCKET LIST Another Bondi special, The Bucket List is the perfect place if you fancy a dip in the sea and then some Pimms and prawns. It’s right on the promenade and head chef Tom Walton does some great work in the kitchen. Check in to great food, wines from near and far, long lazy cocktails and daily specials.

Put another shrimp on the barbie!

(Yep, we went there). thebucketlistbondi.com

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Shop 1, 90 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills 2010

spiceiam.com

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TAPS Bar, Sunshine Coast

Taps hurls a totally unique pub theme onto the table, the likes of which have never been seen in Australia before (a fortunate byproduct of ambitious Aussies travelling abroad). You’ll notice the difference as you step into the bar and eye up a favourable table: each one has a set of taps built into it. It’s a friendly bar and growing in popularity among locals thanks to attentive and chatty bartenders with a good memory for names. There are also plenty of games to liven up your drinking sessions.

BEHIND THE BAR Depending on where you plant yourself you’ll have a selection of different beers pumped ice-cold through to your table. They have a good nose for craft beers, so don’t be boring. Head to the bar (the main one that is) to add credit to an ‘iButton’ device and use it to activate your taps. From there you pull the drink of choice yourself – charged per ml so you don’t even need to fill up if you’re a bit of a drink nurser.

THE GRUB Taps has put a spin on Australian pub fare and refuses to be boring. We’d recommend the wangus burger (wagyu and black angus blend) with chunky chips ($12), the sloppy José ($14) or the posh panini ($18). The chef designed the menu with local produce in mind, so dig in!

BILL PLEASE You’ll pay a little more than other places – beers are about $7.50 a schooner. Learn to pour a pint properly and keep the head to a minimum to get the best value.

VERDICT A quirky bar with mass appeal. With any luck it’s the start of a new wave of interesting pubs. Rory Platt THE SCENE

Cnr The Esplanade, Brisbane Road, Mooloolaba QLD

3 OF THE BEST SYDNEY FOOD TRUCKS

tapsaustralia.com.au

EAT ART TRUCK

VEGGIE PATCH

CANTINA MOBIL

Providing delicious street food and promoting street art – that’s the philosophy behind the Eat Art Truck.

The menu is American BBQ with a Japanese influence – slow-cooked meats and sweet and sour flavours – while the black truck gets a street art style makeover every month. @EatArtTruck

Sydney’s chief vegetarian and vegan food truck serves up an awesome plump and filling zucchini burger; plus its sweet potato fries are a less guilty way of getting your chip fix. Even if you’re a confirmed carnivore, this cute shed-style van is worth a punt for something new.

We all know that the best Mexican food is its street food, and these guys have taken this quite literally as they whizz around the streets of Sydney in their bright orange van. The soft shell tacos are fab filled with chipotle beef, chicken or pinto beans and smothered in sauce. @Cantina_Mobil

@Veggiepatchvan

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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 Pavilion 169 Dolphin St, Coogee beachpalacehotel.com.au DOME Bar 589 Crown Street, Surry Hills domefunctions.com Donny’s Bar 7 Market Ln, Manly donnys.com.au Flinders Hotel 63-65 Flinders St, Surry Hills theflindershotel.com.au Hotel Bondi 178 Campbell Parade, Bondi hotelbondi.com.au Hotel Steyne 75 The Corso, Manly steynehotel.com.au In Situ 1/18 Sydney Rd, Manly insitumanly.com.au Kinselas Hotel 383 Bourke St, Darlinghurst kinselas.com.au

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

MELBOURNE

Black Pearl 304 Brunswick St, Fitzroy blackpearlbar.com.au Cherry Bar 103 Flinders Lane, CBD cherrybar.com.au Corner Hotel 57 Swan Street, Richmond cornerhotel.com Eden Bar and Nightclub 1/163 Russell Street, CBD edenbar.com.au Esplanade Hotel 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda espy.com.au Northcote Social Club 301 High Street, Northcote northcotesocialclub.com

ADELAIDE The Apple Bar 5-9 Synagogue Pl, CBD theapplebar.com.au Earl of Leicester Hotel 85 Leicester Street, Parkside earl.com.au Electric Circus 17 Crippen Place, CBD crippenplace.com Grace Emily Hotel 232 Waymouth St, CBD yourbars.com.au The Promethean 116 Grote St, CBD theprom.com.au

PERTH

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

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

Shamiana 420 Lonsdale St, CBD shamiana.com.au

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

Star Bar 160 Clarendon Street starbarhotel.com.au

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

The Gin Mill 173 High St, Prahran theginmillprahran.com

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

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

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

The Night Owl 35 Elizabeth Street, CBD facebook.com

BRISBANE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brutale 18 Corrs Lane, CBD brutale.com.au

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

Iceworks 157 Given Terrace, Paddington iceworks.com.au

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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 Toro Bar 416 Milton Rd, Auchenflower facebook.com Super Whatnot 48 Burnett Lane superwhatnot.com

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

CAIRNS Ba8 Lounge Bar Shangri-La Hotel, The Pier at the Marina, Pier Point shangri-la.com Dunwoody’s Tavern 317 Sheridan St, North Cairns dunwoodys.com.au Salt House 6/2 Pier Point Rd, CBD

Hemingway’s MANLY HAS SEEN A MINI-BAR EXPLOSION RECENTLY Hemingway’s is getting quite a name for itself and flexing its muscles as the new heavyweight on the block. Great house price drinks, cafe bar and restaurant that’s turning out some top notch nosh. We suggest you give Hemingway’s a try.

48 North Steyne, Manly 2095 New website coming soon.

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

follow us on Hamilton Hotel 442 Kingsford Smith Dve, Ham hamiltonhotel.com.au Hamilton Station Hotel 2-6 Beaumont St, Islington hamiltonstation.com.au Hotel Delany 134 Darby St, CBD hoteldelany.com Kent Hotel 59-61 Beaumont St, Hamilton thekenthotel.com.au King Street Hotel 15 Steel St, Newcastle West kingstreethotel.com.au Lass O’Gowrie 14 Railway St, Wickham lassogowriehotel.com.au Mary Ellen Hotel 57 Railway St, Mereweather maryellenhotel.com.au Oriental Hotel 53 Bull St, Cooks Hill facebook.com/theorihotel Premier Hotel 1 Brunker Rd, Broadmeadow hotelpremier.com.au Royal Inn Hotel Waratah 61/69 Station St, Waratah truelocal.com.au

Hamilton northernstarhotel.com.au Wickham Park Hotel 61 Maitland Rd, Islington thewicko.com.au

BYRON BAY Beach Hotel Bay St beachhotel.com.au

PJ O’Reilly’s 52 Alinga St pjoreillys.com.au Transit Bar 7 Akuna St transitbar.com.au

WOLLONGONG

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

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

Alibi 76 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

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

Castros 5 Victoria Street facebook.com/castros

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

Glasshouse Nightclub 90 Crown Street facebook.com/ sucasawollongong

Bojangles Saloon 80 Todd St yourbars.com.au

Grand Hotel 234 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Chifley Alice Springs Resort 34 Stott Tce chifleyhotels.com.au

Harp Hotel 124 Corrimal Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Firkin & Hound 21 Hartely St yourbars.com.au

Ivory Nightclub 77 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

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

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

Academy Club 15 Bunda St academyclub.com.au

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

Cube Nightclub 33 Petrie Plaza cubenightclub.com.au

The Northern Star 112 Beaumont St,

Mooseheads 105 London Circuit mooseheads.com.au

@tnt_downunder

ICBM Bar 50 Northbourne Ave icbmbar.com

OneFiveOne 150 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au Questions Unit 5 123-125 Corrimal Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

DARWIN Ducks Nuts 76 Mitchell St, CBD

The Tap Bar 58 Mitchell St, CBD thetap.com.au

ALICE SPRINGS

The Juicy Rump @ Lasseters 93 Barret Dr, Desert Springs lasseters.com.au The Rock Bar 78 Todd St therockbar.com.au Todd Tavern 1 Todd St toddtavern.com.au

CHECK OUT

BARRIO CELLAR Nothing goes down better than some late night tequila, Mexican and good Mexican tunes. The main focus is on tequila and there’s even a giant neon sign that can not be avoided to prove it.

Expect Tortas, tacos and chilli pork crackling, and because they’re open until 3am you can eat late in attempt to prevent the tequila head in the morning. Best of luck with that. - See more at: Basement Level, 58 Elizabeth St, Martin Place, Sydney barriocellar.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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GIGLISTINGS

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The Domain, Sydney mumfordandsons.com

MUST SEE!

Smoke And Doom 2015 $15-20 Lewisham Hotel, Sydney lewishamhotel.com.au Electro Carousel - Electro Swing Comes To Town $20, $25 & $30 Jam Gallery, Sydney moshtix.com.au Future Islands $124.90 The Domain, Sydney bgsyd.nsw.gov.au

THU NOV 19 Michael P Cullen And The Soul Searchers $12 LazyBones Lounge, Sydney michaelcullen.info

Photo courtesty of Bilbao BBK Live

FRI NOV 20 The Screaming Jets Rock n Roll Rampage Tour $34.50 DMetro Theatre, Sydney eventfinda.com.au

MUMFORD & SONS November 14 at the Domain in Sydney.

We are pleased to announce that Mumford & Sons will be heading back to Australian shores this November to play a handful of shows across the country.

The band will play a very special Gentlemen Of The Road event at Sydney’s Domain. mumfordandsons.com

TUE OCT 27 Robbie Williams - Let Me Entertain You Tour $162.10 Allphones Arena, Sydney premier.ticketek.com.au

WED OCT 28 Rüfüs - You Were Right Tour $45.83 Enmore Theatre, Sydney ticketek.com.au

THU OCT 29 Alpine $20 Newtown Hotel, Sydney newtownsc.ticketscout.com.au

FRI OCT 30 Tuka - Life Death Time Eternal Tour $28.70 Metro Theatre, Sydney tuka.net.au

The Protesters $12 Lewisham Hotel, Sydney lewishamhotel.com.au

SAT OCT 31 The Rubens $44.95 Enmore Theatre, Sydney enmoretheatre.com.au Sounds From The Crypt Halloween Party $10 Oxford Art Factory, Sydney

SUN NOV 1

10cc - The Australian Tour $48 Revesby Workers’ Club, Sydney rwc.org.au

Andrew Morris And Triplex $67 The Brass Monkey, Sydney brassmonkey.com.au

Diesel $23.20 The Brass Monkey, Sydney brassmonkey.com.au

SAT NOV 7 Montaigne - National Tour $150 Goodgod Small Club, Sydney moshtix.com.au

The All-Leunig Song Almanac $69 City Recital Hall, Sydney cityrecitalhall.com

I Know Leopard - Another Life National Tour Free Moonshine Bar, Sydney eventfinda.com.au

Fairfax New York Scholarship Concert $35 Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Sydney operafoundationaust.org.au

C.w Stoneking $45 Manning Bar, Sydney manningbar.com

Dub FX $45 Manning Bar, Sydney manningbar.com

SUN NOV 8 Harbour Rocks Party Cruise $39 Vagabond Cruises, Sydney eventfinda.com.au

The Heart & Soul Harbour Cruise $42.50 Rocks Rhythm Boat, Sydney stickytickets.com.au

Anathema $69.53 Cafe del Mare, Darling Harbour, Sydney premier.ticketek.com.au

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FRI NOV 6 Chet Faker - Built On Live Tour $99 Sydney Opera House, Sydney sydneyoperahouse.com

Juke Box Jive With DJ The Killer Free Club Liverpool, Sydney clubliverpool.com.au Reloaded Feat. The Upskirts & Burn Antares & More $15 The Factory Theatre, Sydney factorytheatre.com.au

THU NOV 12 Suzannah Espie $20.50 DJango Bar, Sydney stickytickets.com.au

FRI NOV 13 Florence + The Machine Tour $130 Sydney Opera House, Sydney sydneyoperahouse.com Lennon - Through Onion Glass $42.50 Revesby Workers’ Club, Sydney sa2.seatadvisor.com

SAT NOV 14 Bondi Beach Fest $85 Bondi Beach, Sydney bondibeachfest.com Mumford And Sons $124.90

Voodoo Lust Returns $18 The Factory Theatre, Sydney factorytheatre.com.au

SAT NOV 21 Marlon Williams & The Yarra Benders Tour $28.50 Oxford Art Factory, Sydney marlonwilliams.co.nz British India - Spring Tour 2015 $37.82 Metro Theatre, Sydney newworldartists.net Garrett Kato National Tour With Pete Murray $39.90 The Basement, Sydney petemurray.com Harbourlife $122 Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point, Sydney fuzzy.com.au Ron Sexsmith $59.25 Newtown Social Club, Sydney tickets.oztix.com.au

SUN NOV 22 Hannah Robinson Free The Stoned Crow, Sydney stonedcrow.com.au The Rambunctious Stray Dogs Free The Merton Hotel, Sydney themertonhotel.com.au

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BEST THE

OF THE BEST

From hostels to tour operators to campervan rentals, TNT Magazine brings you the top travel companies, as voted for by the backpackers themselves...

As we make our way around this here fine land, we encounter hostel staff who go that extra mile to make our stay awesome, tour guides who become great mates, experiences that give us memories to last a lifetime, and more. And we believe these companies should be recognised for making backpacking around Australia and New Zealand that extra bit special.

Every year, TNT Magazine hosts the Golden Backpack Awards to do just that. Voted for by the public, and secret shoppers and an independent judging panel, the winners will receive the ultimate stamp of approval from the people that matter most: the backpackers themselves.

Here, we have listed the finalists for each section, covering accommodation, tours, travel agents, camping and holiday parks, car and campervan rentals, backpacker nights and more across Australia and New Zealand.

Not only are the Golden Backpack Awards massively important to the industry, but they let you know where to stay, what to do and what companies to use on your travels here. Simply use this list (you can also find it online at tntdownunder.com) when planning your trip . Oh, and keep an eye on the website to find out the ultimate winners, announced November 5.

18

AUSTRALIA Best Accommodation

NEW SOUTH WALES BASE ST KILDA Is where all the big down under fun begins and is the perfect Sydney hostel to work, travel and play.

BOUNCE SYDNEY This award winning hostel makes grimy backpacking a thing of the past. Its rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the Sydney skyline.

DISCOVER HOLIDAY PARK-AUSTRALIA Caravan parks and cabin accommodation across Australia.

SYDNEY BACKPACKERS Provides the highest standard of budget backpacking accommodation services.

SYDNEY CITY CENTRAL YHA Close to all the action in the hub of the backpackers’ precinct. They’ve got a heated pool, cinema and panoramic rooftop.

YHA BACKPACKERS SYDNEY HARBOUR The only backpacker hostel in the city’s historic harbourside area, offering some wicked views.

YHA BLUE MOUNTAIN KATOOMBA Housed in a restored, redbrick National Trust building, this backpacker hostel is a 9-minute walk from Katoomba train station.

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GOLDEN BACKPACKS 2015

VICTORIA BASE ST KILDA Situated in Melbourne’s coolest area, it offers a unique style of hostel living, combining state of the art facilities and laid back vibe.

GREENHOUSE BACKPACKERS In the heart of cosmopolitan Melbourne with lots of activities to get backpackers immersed in no time.

HABITAT HQ Inexpensive, relaxes and in the heart of Melbourne’s premier tourist and seaside playground.

LORDS LODGE Set in a 150 years old mansion and owned by young Melbournites who love travellers.

MELBOURNE DISCOVERY GROUP One of Melbourne’s top providers of budget group accommodation.

SPACE HOTEL In the heart of the fastpaced and ever changing CBD. The rooftop terrace has a hot tub and there’s a cinema.

THE RITZ FOR BACKPACKERS One of the best locations in Melbourne in in the centre of the beach side suburb, St Kilda and close to all the action.

UNITED BACKPACKERS Travellers voted United Backpackers Australia’s best hostel at the Australian Travel Awards in 2014.

URBAN CENTRAL This lively budget hostel is also 12 minutes from the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium.

QUEENSLAND BASE AIRLIE BEACH Rapidly gaining the reputation for stylish rooms, friendly local crew and a fun social atmosphere all in one central location.

BRISBANE BACKPACKERS RESORT Offering cheap, high-quality backpacker and hostel accommodation.

BASE MAGNETIC ISLAND One of the best kept secrets of Australia’s Tropical North, located right on the beach. It’s the closest hostel to Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal.

BUNK BACKPACKERS Located right in the heart of Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley and considered the best hostel in Brisbane with budget accommodation to suit all budgets.

CAIRNS YHA This resort-style hostel is a traveller’s oasis.

DINGOS BACKPACKER RESORT Referred to as the best Rainbow Beach accommodation.

GILLIGANS Centrally located, it’s the ideal base from which to explore the beautiful and tropical north.

NOOSA FLASHPACKERS This modern hostel is 1.2 km from the Noosa Junction bus stop and close to the Sunshine beach.

STRADDIE CAMPING Beachfront

Island camping on North Stradbroke Island.

UNITED BACKPACKERS PORT DOUGLAS It’s brand new and super cool.

TASMANIA ARTHOUSE BACKPACKERS Napier’s funkiest backpacker’s hostel, located right next to the ocean.

BICHENO BACKPACKERS This unassuming hostel is a 7-minute walk from the beach and popular.

MONTACUTE BOUTIQUE BUNKHOUSE Set in an elegant residential area, this trendy hostel is an 8-minute walk from Salamanca Market.

THE PICKLED FROG Cheap, clean and comfortable in the centre of Hobart, perfect for the budget traveller. Built around an 1834 stable ad pub.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA ADELAIDE BACKPACKERS INN & HOSTEL 109 A 6-minute walk from the City South tram stop, this casual, townhouse hostel set on a tree-lined street is also 10 km from bushwalking.

ADELAIDE’S SHAKESPEARE BACKPACKERS INTERNATIONAL HOSTEL Stay in an amazing historic building right in the centre of the CBD. BACKPACK OZ Family owned and operated business that enjoys a great reputation.

BAROSSA BACKPACKERS Offer backpackers and workers the opportunity to experience the vineyards, wineries and wine of the Barossa valley.

HANSON BAY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Six self-contained beach-side holiday cabins on Kangaroo Island.

HARBOUR VIEW CARAVAN COWELL Situated on the picturesque Franklin Harbour, this family run park has spectacular views of the harbour and surrounding area.

PORT ELLIOT YHA Comfortable budget accommodation on South Australia’s spectacular Fleurieu Peninsula.

VIVONNE BAY LODGE Well priced accommodation on Kangaroo Island.

YHA ADELAIDE Multi-award-winning accommodation with a vibrant atmosphere.

NORTHERN TERRITORY ALICE LODGE BACKPACKERS Homestyle comfort offering free breakfast, linen, tea, coffee, BBQ facilities and a chilled out atmosphere.

ALICE SECRET TRAVELLERS INN Its small hostel and Lonely Planet highly rate it.

MELALEUCA ON MITCHELL Centrally located for the pubs, clubs, restaurants and shops, although there’s plenty going on inside with a bar, pool tables, pool and more.

YHA ALICE SPRINGS Housed in an historic movie theatre in the centre of town.

YOUTH SHACK HOSTEL It has all the modern comforts and facilities to cater to all travellers and is located in the very heart of Darwin.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA BILLABONG BACKPACKERS Popular since its 2001 opening. The staff are well travelled and experienced hostels and cultures round the globe.

COOLIBAH LODGE The leading backpackers’ hostel and accommodation in Perth, close to the station adults only.

GLOBE BACKPACKERS A 2-minute walk from William Street metro station, this relaxed hostel is also 8 minutes’ walk from both the Perth Arena sport and music venue.

NINGALOO CLUB CORAL BAY Unfussy and low key.

OCEAN BEACH BACKPACKERS On the stunning Cottesloe Beach, great place to relax.

THE EMPORER’S CROWN Perfectly located, just a short walk from Perth CBD, Northbridge and Perth train station. The Emperor’s Crown Backpackers offers great budget accommodation.

OLD SWAN BARRACKS Right next to CBD in Perth, the hostel was completely renovated in 2008 and is operating under new management.

PERTH CITY YHA Centrally located in the middle of Perth CBD, with a great bar and free gym, so you can party and keep in shape.

WITCH’S HAT One of Western Australia’s most popular backpacker destination located in a quiet area, just a short walk to the busy entertainment hub.

YHA WA Hostels all over Western Australia, no two hostels are the same and all conform to YHA standards.

Best Tour Activity

NEW SOUTH WALES CONTIKI Is about ticking the boxes, but those eye-opening moments in time that stay with you for life.

LET’S GO SURFING Offering everything from beginner’s lessons to holiday camps.

MOJO SURF Award winning offering a variety of surf camp adventures heading north or south along the east coast between Sydney & Brisbane.

OZ SNOW ADVENTURES Oz Snow designs their tours to be fun filled, good value for TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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Island Penguin Parade tours, Grampians tours, Yarra Valley and more.

money and will remove the stress from organising your snow holiday.

SKYDIVE AUSTRALIA BYRON BAY Fine-tuned over the past 30 years, its instructors are accredited by the Australian Parachute Federation.

SKYDIVE THE BEACH AND BEYOND WOOLLONGONG Founded in 1998 by a pair of degenerate young mates, it has grown from a small beachfront operation to 11 premium drop zones.

SURF CAMP AUSTRALIA Learn to surf at Australia’s Seven Mile Beach National Park.

SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE CLIMB Legendary snow trips, they take the hassle out of planning a ski trip.

ULTIMATE OZ SYDNEY City walking tour, Sydney Harbour catamaran cruise, two nights at basecamp, sandboarding, wild bottlenose dolphins and kangaroos.

YHA SYDNEY CENTRAL Various tours organised.

VICTORIA AUTOPIA TOURS Small group tour specialists, offering sightseeing adventures to Great Ocean Rd, Grampians, Phillip Island & other tourist destination.

BUNYIP TOURS A variety of trips in an environmentally responsible way.

G-ADVENTURES They offer a wide selection of small-group tours, safaris and expeditions.

GROOVY GRAPE TOURS Good value, all-inclusive Aussie adventure tours, specialising in southern and central Australia.

NEIGHBOURS TOUR Great if you’re a fan of the show.

RAP JUMPING A highly advanced form of freestyle rope work, abseiling experience in the centre of Melbourne.

WILDLIFE TOURS AUSTRALIA An exciting range of Greta Ocean Road tours, Phillip 20

SOUTH AUSTRALIA ADVENTURE TOURS AUSTRALIA Travel deals for the active budget traveller and backpackers to suit all pockets.

BACKPACK OZ A hostel with an awesome selection of tours to suit everyone’s budget and needs.

CALYPSO STAR CHARTER A multi award winning company that offers the opportunity to experience wildlife at its finest.

G-ADVENTURES They offer a wide selection of small-group tours, safaris and expeditions.

GROOVY GRAPE TOURS Good value allinclusive Aussie tours.

KANGAROO ISLAND ADVENTURE TOURS Tours and package travel deals for the active budget traveller and backpackers to suit all pockets.

SWIM WITH THE TUNA Hand feed and swim with one of the fastest fish in the world, the Blue Fin Tuna.

TASTE THE BAROSSA Small group wine tasting tours depart Adelaide seven days a week, including a platter lunch.

QUEENSLAND AJ HACKETT Has been throwing people off bridges since 1988, starting out with a couple of guys in pursuit of the ultimate adrenaline adventure.

CAIRNS DIVE CENTRE Live aboard and day trips to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns.

DEEP SEA DIVERS DEN Thirty years’ experience make them the longest established diving and snorkelling company in the area.

DROP BEAR ADVENTURES Locally owned and passionately operated, they will show you how adventurous Fraser Island can be.

NOMADS FRASER ISLAND TOURS Fraser Island tours, the best way to see Fraser in all its glory with two and three day tours.

ON THE WALLABY Provides accommodation and tour information.

RAGING THUNDER ADVENTURES Cairns tours, accommodation and all-inclusive holiday packages with Australia’s largest adventure holiday operator.

SKYDIVE AUSTRALIA MISSION BEACH Fine-tuned over the past 30 years, its instructors are accredited by the Australian Parachute Federation.

TRUE BLUE SAILING A two day 2 night Whitsunday sailing adventure around the Whitsunday Islands.

WHITSUNDAYS SAILING ADVENTURES Quality live-aboard sailing adventures in the spectacular Whitsunday Islands of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

NORTHERN TERRITORY ADVENTURE TOURS AUSTRALIA Travel deals for the active budget traveller and backpackers to suit all pockets.

CROCOSAURUS COVE Located in the heart of Darwin, visitors can get up close and personal with the saltwater crocodile.

EMU RUN EXPERIENCE Professional tour guides love the Outback and have a great sense of humour to give a relaxed yet exciting touring experience.

G-ADVENTURES They offer a wide selection of small-group tours, safaris and expeditions.

GROOVY GRAPE Wide range of package deals and seasonal specials that don’t cost a fortune.

KAKADU 4WD SAFARIS Small, independent, Aboriginal owned tours offering active adventure with a knowledgeable guide. Exploring lesser known waterfalls and spectacular landscapes.

MULGAS ADVENTURES Three day tour to Uluru, stopping off at King’s Canyon and Kata Tjuta on the way.

THE ROCK TOUR The tours take in Alice Springs, Uluru, King’s Canyon and Kata Tjuta, TOPDECK Tour the highlights of the ‘Land Down Under’ with like-minded 18-30 something travellers.

WAYOUTBACK AUSTRALIAN SAFARIS Adventure seeker specialist for those who want to experience the icons, culture and the traditions of Australia in small groups.

TASMANIA ADVENTURE TOURS AUSTRALIA Package travel deals for the active budget traveller and backpackers.

JUMP TOURS The best budget Tasmanian and Northern Territory backpacker tours for people looking for epic adventures.

UNDER DOWN UNDER Offers the largest range of tours in Tasmania, while providing visitors with a hassle free, and eco-friendly way to see Tasmania on a budget.

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GOLDEN BACKPACKS 2015 WESTERN AUSTRALIA ADVENTURE TOURS AUSTRALIA Package travel deals for the active budget traveller and backpackers.

AUSSIE WANDERER Run by a group of locals dedicated to providing a real Western Australian adventure tour experience.

INTEGRITY COACH LINES Provider of coach travel from Perth to Broome and everywhere in between.

KIMBERLEY WILD ADVENTURE TOURS The premier camping 4WD tour operator with custom-built vehicles, a network of private safari camps, local support centres and experienced adventure tour guides.

NULLABOR TRAVELLER Started in 1997 as a way to showcase one of the last great undiscovered journeys in Australia, the coastal route from Adelaide to Perth.

RED EARTH SAFARIS Fun-loving guides pride themselves on their local knowledge of the 2.5 million sq km that is Western Australia.

THREE ISLAND TOURS Specialises in whale shark snorkel adventure tours on Ningaloo Reef between mid-March and the end of July. With the aim to educate and share knowledge and understanding of the whale sharks and marine life of Ningaloo Reef.

Best Small Travel Agent

ADVENTURE CAIRNS & BEYOND As well as Australia and New Zealand the team also help with bus passes, cruises and train travel further afield, such as Fiji and Thailand.

CROOKED COMPASS A unique travel app for smart phones and tablets that reveal some of Australia’s best tours and activities.

DISCOVERY TOUR CENTRE Tours booked locally, just ask.

DUCK TRAVEL SYDNEY Specialises in servicing the backpacker, student and youth travel market. With deals Australia wide, the company aims to save consumers money throughout all Oz travels.

FRIENDLY BACKPACKER travel Hostel and travel agent in one, these guys will sort everything for the backpacker trip.

GEORGIE’S GETAWAY GILLIGAN’S With more than 30 years of combined travel experience, the team are well placed to advise on tours in Australia and New Zealand, from scuba diving in the reef to glacier ice climbs in New Zealand.

LAKE67 They take travel and study to the next level.

TROPICAL TOUR Not restricted to the backpacker market, they find holidays for all.

22

Best Online Agent

AIRLIEBEACH.COM Specialists in Whitsunday holidays breaks in North Queensland.

FRASERISLAND.COM.AU Two and three day tours from the award winning Rainbow Beach.

GEORGIES GETAWAY Shark diving, rock climbing, skydiving, you name it and they can do it.

PETERPANS ADVENTURE TRAVEL Offers cheap adventure travel, hostel and tour packages for Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.

STA TRAVEL More than 60 of the company’s 450 worldwide stores are dotted around Australia and New Zealand, offering a familiar port-of-call for people to pop into. Believing that travel is the best education and a powerful agent of social change, STA Travel’s core purpose is to make travel both affordable and attainable.

ULURU ADVENTURES Uluru, Ayers Rock and Alice Springs specialists.

WICKED TRAVEL The backpacker travel specialist offering the best trips across Australia. They guarantee low prices on tours and hostels.

XTREME TRAVEL Their goal is to help people get the most out of travel, regardless of their budget. They also look to support local businesses, and has a raft of connections for travellers.

Best Airline - Australia

JETSTAR An Australian low cost carrier operates across 19 domestic destinations covering all popular destinations.

QANTAS Founded in the Queensland outback in 1920, Qantas is now Australia’s largest domestic and international airline.

TIGERAIR Although based in Singapore, Tigerair flies to more than 50 destinations across Australia and Asia.

VIRGIN Second largest airline in Australia.

Best Large Travel Agent BACKPACKER BY STA More than 60 of the company’s 450 worldwide stores are dotted around Australia and New Zealand, offering a familiar port-of-call for people to pop into. Believing that travel is the best education and a powerful agent of social change, STA Travel’s core purpose is to make travel both affordable and attainable.

BACKPACKERS WORLD TRAVEL Fantastic tours across Australia, New Zealand and further afield. They have excellent backpacker knowledge.

FLIGHT CENTRE Cheap flights, holiday packages and tours from Australia’s leading travel agents.

HAPPY TRAVELSIndependent travel agency and job finding service, a pretty good port of call when landing on Australian land.

PETERPANS Winners of GBA multiple times, offering great deals on adventure travel across Oz, New Zealand and Fiji.

Best Transport Provider

GREAT SOUTHERN RAIL Aiming to offer exceptional service on journeys through a rich diversity of Australian landscapes, Great Southern Rail looks to inspire a passion for travel by train.

GREYHOUND AUSTRALIA Australia puts its 100 years of experience to good use, providing comfortable, hassle-free and affordable coach services to people all over the country INTEGRITY COACH LINES Centrally located in the city centre and providing a luxury coach transport service within WA. LOKA An incredible hop on hop off, guided adventure on the East Coast of Oz. PREMIER WAY Coach and Bus Services linking Melbourne, Sydney to Cairns operating 7 days a week.

QANTAS Founded in the Queensland outback in 1920, Qantas is now Australia’s largest domestic and international airline.

QUEENSLAND RAIL Government run trains with a good reputation.

SPACESHIPS Compact and cheap campervan hire in Sydney, Cairns, Brisbane and Melbourne.

Best Holiday Park

BIG 4 GOLD COAST HOLIDAY PARK From humble beginnings in 1979, Big 4 has grown to more than 170 parks all across Australia. In particular, BIG4 cabin, caravan and camping accommodation is available in three locations along the Gold Coast.

BUNGALOW BAY MAGNETIC ISLAND The multi award winning YHA Resort provides budget accommodation and camping and an on-site wildlife park.

CAIRNS HOLIDAY PARK Cheap holiday accommodation in Cairns that offers a fantastic range of great-value accommodation options.

COUNTRY STYLE CARAVAN PARK Located in the heart of the Granite Belt Wine Country on the banks of the Severn River, the Country Style Caravan Park offers a selection of accommodation choices.

LEDGE POINT CARAVAN PARK Relax and unwind in the Cray fishing town.

Best Campervan

APOLLO Competitively priced campervan hire in Australia and New Zealand and if you ever head east they do America as well.

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GOLDEN BACKPACKS 2015 BRITZ Provides motorhome, car, RV and campervan hire options in both Australia and New Zealand.

CAMPERMAN AUSTRALIA Family owned and operational for over 20 years, the campervan hire firm has the experience to get you from A to B. HIPPIE CAMPERS Affordable transport has ensured the brand’s ever-increasing popularity with budget-conscious travellers throughout Australia and New Zealand.

JUCY Offers unique and exciting travel solutions across Australia, New Zealand and the USA. MIGHTY CAMPERS Mighty Campers has a campervan to suit all needs.

SPACESHIPS Campervans are available for hire from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns, Auckland and Christchurch.

RELOC8IT These guys are located all over Australia even in the outback.

TRAVELLERS AUTOBARN Established by ex-backpackers with a love of travel, Travellers Autobarn puts more than 20 years of experience to good use in the travelling community.

WICKED CAMPERS Cheap camper van rental options with offices located around the world.

Best Visitor Attraction

BLUE MOUNTAINS DRAMATIC scenery, it encompasses steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls and villages dotted with guesthouses, galleries and gardens, all on Sydney’s doorstep.

DAINTREE NATIONAL PARK A vast area of tropical rainforest wilderness in North Queensland.

FRASER ISLAND Stretching over an area of 184,000 hectares, Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world.

GREAT BARRIER REEF Known worldwide for its abundance of marine life and tropical islands, travellers descend in their droves for a chance to snorkel, scuba dive or sail.

KAKADU Located 240km east of Darwin in Australia’s tropical north, Kakadu National Park is Australia’s largest terrestrial national park.

KOALA PARK ON MAGNETIC ISLAND The only resort in Australia that can boast its own wildlife park on site. In-house guests, day visitors and island residents have the opportunity to learn all about the habitats and unique Aussie animals of Magnetic Island, through an interpretative and hands-on approach which encourage

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Best Backpacker Night

BASE BACKPACKERS DOWN UNDER Igniting the steamy sands of Magnetic Island each month with the promise of peace, love and party for all.

BIRDEES Named after a scene from the movie “The Party”, Birdees has been a home away from home for backpackers and students alike since 2003.

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you to explore the island and animals of Magnetic Island.

SYDNEY HARBOUR The vibrant Sydney Harbour is alive with ferries, yachts – and even kayaks.

TWELVE APOSTLES, GREAT OCEAN ROAD The Twelve Apostles is a collection of limestone stacks off the shore of the Port Campbell National Park, by the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. Their proximity to one another has made the site a popular destination with hikers.

ULURU NATIONAL PARK Rising 348m from the desert in the deep centre of Australia, Uluru is perhaps the most recognisable Aboriginal site in the country.

WHITEHAVEN BEACH is one of the world’s best beaches with pure white sand and crystal clear water.

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GOLDEN BACKPACKS 2015 CHEEKY MONKEYS Nestled close to Byron Bay for night-time paddles, Cheeky Monkeys promises the best fun you can have with your clothes on.

GILLIGANS Hostel and awesome backpacker bar all in one, with a wild, party edge.

HABITAT HQ It may be a hostel, but the bar is kicking.

MUSTANG BAR An American style sports bar with US diner menu, music gigs, local and imported beers.

SCARY CANARY The ultimate backpacker experience is up for grabs at Scary Canary, which offers cheap drinks, quality food and an interactive introduction to Sydney’s cultural melting pot.

THE WOOLSHED For more than 19 years, The Woolshed has offered backpackers an evening experience that won’t be forgotten in a hurry.

X BASE BACKPACKERS - St Kilda. Another hostel where backpackers go crazy.

Best Destination

CAIRNS A tropical climate and home to the Great Barrier Reef.

CENTRAL AUS also known as the Alice Springs Region is the heart and soul of the country.

GOLD COAST Where travellers head to for their thrills and spills.

MELBOURNE Australia’s hub of all things stylish.

NOOSA Renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful seaside holiday destinations and attracting attention, due to the amount of money that has been spent on getting it to where it is today.

NORTHERN TERRITORIES From the tropics through to the deserts.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA WA offers the enviable laid back Aussie lifestyle.

SYDNEY The glittering Sydney skyline is one of the most recognisable in the world.

THE WHITSUNDAYS Made up of 74

individual islands scattered along the tropical coast of Queensland.

NEW ZEALAND Best Accommodation ABSOLOOT VALUE ACCOMMODATION Offers a variety of backpacker accommodation in Queenstown for the value-seeking traveller.

ADVENTURE QUEENSTOWN HOSTEL Adventure Queenstown Hostel offers boutique and homely hostel accommodation, which is truly owned and run by intrepid travellers.

BASE AUCKLAND Located in the heart of Auckland and is the ideal base to discover the city.

BASE BACKPACKERS QUEENSTOWN Base Auckland hostel is located in the heart of the city – central to shops, cafés, museums, Sky Tower and only a few minutes’ walk to train, bus and ferry terminals.

BBH HOSTEL GROUP The largest group of backpacker style accommodation providers in New Zealand.

HAKA LODGE Haka Lodge specialises in providing upmarket New Zealand hostels at affordable rates.

JUCY SNOOZE The budget accommodation is just a short wander to the vibrant night life and restaurants.

PACIFIC COAST LODGE & BACKPACKERS Pacific Coast Lodge and Backpackers is located close to the beautiful shores of Mount Maunganui Beach.

TREK GLOBAL BACKPACKERS Trek Global is the friendly, fun backpackers in the heart of Wellington.

YHA NEW ZEALAND Award winning backpacker hostel accommodation network with 45 locations.

Best Campervan

ESCAPE RENTALS is an award-winning New Zealand campervan hire company

providing reliable, economical rental vehicles for backpackers and independent travelers.

HIPPIE CAMPERS Provider of campervan rentals for travellers who want to hit the road on a budget.

JUCY RENTALS NZ See Best Campervan Rental, Australia.

MIGHTY CAMPERS See Best Campervan Rental, Australia.

SPACESHIPS CARAVANS See Best Campervan Rental, Australia.

WENDEKREISEN TRAVEL LTD Family owned and operated Campervan Hire Company offering quality Motorhome and Car rental.

WICKED CAMPERS New Zealand for backpackers on a budget.

Best Tour/Activity

AJ HACKETT See Best Tours, Queensland.

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER GUIDES / HIKES Franz Josef Glacier Guides is an internationally recognized guiding operation established in 1990, which prides itself on providing the most incredible glacier experience.

HAKA TOURS When you travel around NZ with Haka Tours, you get so much more than a bus pass.

KIWI EXPERIENCE Kiwi Experience is the leading hop-on, hop-off backpacker bus New Zealand experience; designed by travellers for travellers.

SKYDIVE TAUPO Tandem skydiving over NZ’s largest Lake with views of mountains and volcanoes.

SHOTOVER CANYON SWING A purposebuilt, cliff-mounted platform on the edge of a cliff 109m above the Shotover River.

STRAY All-inclusive NZ adventure tours.

TAUPO TANDEM SKYDIVING They have taken more than 170,000 people skydiving.

THE LEGENDARY BLACK WATER New Zealand’s first black water rafting adventure operator.

WAITOMO GLOWORM CAVES The

Voted the best backpackers in NZ 2014 We find work for you, come live the dream at the Mount!

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GOLDEN BACKPACKS 2015

caves are known for its population of glowworms, Arachnocampa luminosa.

Best Travel Agent FLIGHT CENTRE See Australia PETER PANS See Australia STA See Australia

Best Transport Provider

HAKA TOURS When you travel around NZ with Haka Tours, you get so much more than a bus pass.

HIPPIE CAMPER provides campervan rentals for travellers who want to hit the road on a budget and with style.

KIWI EXPERIENCE See Best Tours, New Zealand NAKED BUS Naked flexible bus passes which give travellers the freedom to explore New Zealand their way.

STRAY Guided bus tours of New Zealand. best backpacker night

Best Backpacker Night

BIG NIGHT OUT Queenstown Party from bar to bar with Queenstown’s original pub crawl, five nights a week.

BLEND BAR AND CAFÉ is the ultimate party bar in Wellington.

KIWI CRAWL is Queenstown’s biggest bar crawl, original ice bar crawl and party cruise and crawl.

PIPI PATCH, known as Paihia’s party hostel, is a stone’s throw to the beach, shops, cafés and bars.

PONSONBY BACKPACKERS hosts lively event nights for guests, which are held weekly in the summer season.

TREK GLOBAL BACKPACKERS Trek Global is the friendly, fun backpackers in the heart of Wellington.

Best Visitor Attraction

ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK A New Zealand national park located between Golden Bay and Tasman Bay at the north end of the South Island.

THE BAY OF ISLANDS New Zealand’s enclave with more than 140 subtropical islands by the country’s North Island.

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER GUIDES A 12kmlong glacier located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on New Zealand’s South Island, Franz Josef allows travellers to experience a dynamic glacial environment, all within walking distance from the main highway.

LAKE TAUPO A lake situated in the North Island of New Zealand. It lies in the caldera of the Taupo Volcano.

SKYLINE QUEENSTOWN is home to the ultimate gondola and luge experience.

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TONGARIRO CROSSING Whether you’re an avid trekker or part-time adventurer, the Tongariro Crossing is deemed one of the best one-day treks in the world.

Best Destination

BAY OF ISLANDS a subtropical microregion known for its spectacular scenery and history.

GREAT LAKE TAUPO Tipped as nature’s ultimate playground, Great Lake Taupo is a sporting mecca for thrillseekers.

QUEENSTOWN With more than 220 tourism activities from skiing to whitewater rafting and sky diving, Queenstown is synonymous with adventure.

ROTORUA-AOTEAROA Forest, cycle tracks and adventure: Rotorua is a region rich in stunning landscapes, dotted with forests, natural geysers and soothing mud pools.

TOURISM BAY OF PLENTY Favourite with travelling Kiwi’s.

WAITOMO A village and cave system forming a major tourist attraction in the northern King Country region of the North Island.

Best Cultural Experience NZ & AUS

DOLPHIN SEAFARIS Swim with Dolphins in the waters of Tauranga.

TAMAKI MAORI VILLAGE Regarded as the most award winning and mesmerizing Maori attraction in New Zealand DAINTREE DREAMING Locally owned 4WD tours from Cairns and Port Douglas to Cooktown through the Daintree national park.

Best General-Training, Recruitment And Services BACKPACKR.ORG Whether you’re travelling solo or in a group, Backpacker is a great way to meet nearby travellers.

CMS HOSPITALITY Provider leading hotel software, hostel software, trust accounting software and conferencing software solutions to the hospitality industry.

FRUITPICKINGJOBS.COM.AU Helping backpackers find the latest fruit picking and harvest jobs.

TCP TRAINING Training course professionals.

VISIT OZ Provides an introductory course about farm work in Australia, which will lead to a job in Australian outback.

WORKINGHOLIDAYJOBS.COM.AU A place for people to find working holiday jobs and information.

Winners are grinners!! - some of the happy recipients of Golden Backpack trophies from 2014.

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21/10/2015 5:26 am

Of shark and man David Diley was a thirty-two year old man, trapped in a dead end job in England's industrial north and his life was going nowhere.

He did however, have a lifelong dream...

INTERVIEW JAMES CLARK

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Should David follow the advice of everyone around him and forget about it, or should he risk everything and against all the odds, take his one chance to fulfil his greatest ambition, an ambition which finds him in the middle of a feeding frenzy with sixty of the world's most dangerous sharks?

“Of Shark and Man” is a ground breaking film about one man's journey to get closer than anyone thought possible, to the world's biggest Bull Sharks and tell the incredible untold story of Shark Reef in Fiji, one of the greatest marine conservation successes of all time.

“Of Shark and Man” is an epic, incredibly ambitious, cinematic and award winning love letter to the world's most feared predator, in which the shark is the hero.

What made you decided to give up your job to make a film about sharks?

I think ultimately, it was the realisation that, as I reached that time of life when I should have been in a career I wanted to be in, something which gave me a reason to get up in the morning and something which fulfilled that sense in all of us that we are doing something with our lives, I realised that I was simply not anywhere near being in that position. I didn’t like my job, had very little social life and very rarely felt excitement about anything. For my entire adult life it had eaten away at me that I had not got anywhere near to fulfilling my greatest ambition of being a professional film-maker telling stories about sharks so decided one Monday morning, literally seconds after opening my eyes to the sound of the alarm, that nobody was holding a gun to my head, I didn’t have to live this life and I had nothing to lose, just go for it, it’s either going to take me somewhere I want to be or bring my entire life crashing down around me in a ball of flames, either way I’d have a decent story to tell in a few years’ time.

How many times have you dived?

I stopped counting years ago but it’s now around the 450-500 mark with about 200 shark dives in there.

What is it that draws you to the predator?

They’re just so cool! They have a charisma about them, they’re ancient and perfect, they’re so graceful and beautiful with this mystique and there’s just something about that shape which has an immediate effect on everyone. Think about it, if someone yells “shark” on a beach, every single person is going to look out to sea, nobody is apathetic in a situation like that. The vision of a dorsal fin cutting the surface of the water is iconic in nature. Plus, I have a fascination in big, dangerous animals, I am certainly drawn to the bigger and more dangerous species for sure.

Have you had any frightening or dangerous experiences in the water?

With sharks? No I haven’t actually, that may surprise you. I did however once go blind at 34 metres due to an issue with my

TNTINTERVIEW

Fiji, hands down, is “ the best place... ” eyes which decided to manifest itself during a dive. That was terrifying, basically, long story short, I had unwittingly been using eye drops which used a chemical I was unaware I was allergic to, this essentially rotted away 90% of the corneas in each eye and it just so happened to kick in during a deep dive, three hours from shore in Egypt. A trip to the emergency medical centre, numerous injections, potions and three days sitting alone in a darkened room later, I was back diving again.

Do you get scared?

No, never. I’m not trying to play the big macho card here either! I personally get a heightened sense of awareness, everything becomes clearer, louder and more impactful. There are times I feel vulnerable but I actually enjoy the feeling that goes along with that, it’s quite humbling to become a part of something much bigger and more awe inspiring than anything you can experience during a normal day on land.

Where have you dived and which one stands out?

Fiji, the Bahamas, the Mediterranean, Egypt (North and South), the UK, Gran Canaries... For shark diving? Fiji, hands down is the best place I have ever been although for overall diving, the Southern Red Sea is just incredible, so much life and colour. I went to Cape Town in April to dive for the first time, but the trip was cancelled due to a sa swell.

Any tips for a shark diving novice?

Research the operation you want to dive. As with every other industry, there’s the great, the good, the mediocre and the bad, try to stick with the first two. Any kind of business dealing with environmental stock so to speak, will automatically have some kind of impact on that environment. Try to dive with operations which put back into their local communities and contribute to education and conservation of the animals which are making them their money. Also, and this will endear you to the dive team no end, don’t be that guy/girl who has seen a few episodes of shark week and either thinks they’re an expert or wants to do something a bit different to the normal dive. Listen to the briefing, be respectful of the crew and other guests and understand that, although you may not be nervous, there will be those on the boat who are, don’t ruin their experience by making them feel self-conscious about being apprehensive about seeing a shark up close, it’s completely normal.

Do you have any plans to return to the life of a recruitment consultant in Leeds? Hell no!!

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TRAVEL

Photos: Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions

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

RODNEY FOX SHARK EXPEDITIONS He does look like he’s smiling, doesn’t he? I reckon he might be friendly but I’m not even going to stick my little finger outside the cage to find out!!

Get your adrenalin pumping with our Top Five places to Shark Cage Dive whilst in Oz. Turn to page 34.

INSIDE

Photo: Tourism NT

CHECK OUT TASSIE /38

TOP END TOP 10 /44

HOP THE DITCH /64

We get all cultural and spend our day at the MONA and then try and decide whether to spend time in Hobart or Launceston, then give up and do both!

The magestic Top End will take your breath away. We share with you our guide to the Top 10 places you won’t want to miss whilst up in the Northern Territory.

Check out New Zealand’s amazing Bay of Islands. 140 subtropical islands known for its undeveloped beaches, big-game fishing and Maori cultural artifacts.

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21/10/2015 5:29 am

TRAVELBITES

YOUTH AND STUDENT TRAVELLERS REPRESENT 23% OF INTERNATIONAL TOURIST ARRIVALS WYSE travel confederation and the World tourism organisation have announced an updated estimate of the size of the global youth travel market, according to which youth and student travellers 15 to 29 represent 23% of international tourist arrivals.

The up-to-date analysis of the size of the youth travel market is based on 2012 from over 20 countries with age breakdowns of international tourist arrivals.

“Over time, the share of youth travellers has not only increased, but diversified due to growing numbers of young travellers from emerging economies. This is very good news as young travellers tend to look for lesser known destinations and be more resilient in moments of crises. UNWTO is thus very pleased to be working alongside WYSE Travel Confederation 32

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to better understand this important market segment and support countries adjustment to the needs of young travellers,” said UNWTO SecretaryGeneral Taleb Rifai.

Youth and student travel is one of the fastest rising and active parts of global tourism with young travellers attracting more attention from destinations looking to diversify their markets.

FUTURISTIC TRAVEL UNDERWAY Long haul flights set to be a thing of the past as design for a rocketpropelled jet is underway.

Designed by German aerospace agency The DLR Institute of Space Systems, the Space Liner would travel up to 13,300km/h, which would take passengers from Sydney to Europe in 90 minutes.

Weekend trips between Sydney and Europe would become a possibility.

The craft works by blasting its way into the Earth’s stratosphere, where it

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can reach speeds of up to 20 times the speed of sound in less than ten minutes.

Fuel system will be eco-friendly. Liquid rocket engines that give the craft speed, are fuelled by cryogenic liquid oxygen and hydrogen. That means that only water vapour and hydrogen will be released into the atmosphere.

Don’t get too excited. We’re not expected to be taking this mode of transport until 2050.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE JAMALA WILDLIFE LODGE Jamala wildlife Lodge at the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra has won best tourism initiative award at the National Australian Hotels Association Awards.

General manager Kristy Ryan said the team was excited to have won the award.

“It is wonderful for the entire team, across the National Zoo and Aquarium and the Jamala staff, to have their

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New Aussie spider species Scientists have discovered what could be a new species of the deadly funnel-web spider.

hard work, dedication and passions acknowledge with a national award,” she said.

Jamala was up against the National Wine Centre in South Australia and the Rottnest hotel in Western Australia in their category.

The resort has 20 luxury rooms scattered across the zoo each with their own animal encounter. The hotel rooms are merged into the enclosures of many of the zoo’s animals, including; Bengal tigers, European brown bears, Malayan sun bears, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, black and white colobus monkeys, ring-tailed lemurs, hyenas, and snow leopards.

Rooms can be booked for one night and profits go back into the zoo.

Don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to spend a night at Jamala to see what all the hype is about.

SYDNEY SEVENS TRAVEL PACKAGES 2016 GO ON SALE Travel packages have gone on sale for the 2016 Sydney Sevens Rugby union.

Rugby fans are expected to head to Sydney as affordable travel packages were announced for the event.

Part of the HSBC Sevens World Series, Sydney Sevens will take place from 6-7 February and transform the city as the world’s greatest rugby players from 16 countries meet to play 42 matches.

In Sydney for the first time, the event will attract visitors from across Australia and the globe. Domestic travel packages are currently available from as low as $269 per person for three nights, including accommodation and tickets.

The two-inch spider (not exactly a giant) found in Booderee National Park near Jervis Bay, South of Sydney is believed to be from the variety that lives in trees.

Until recently, only the Sydney funnel-web, one of the world’s most venomous, has been known to live in the park.

Funnel-web spiders are feared in Australia, where there have been 13 recorded deaths from bites, although none since the development of an anti-venom in the early 1980s.

Symptoms tend to start early, beginning with tingling around the mouth, twitching of the tongue, profuse salivating, watery eyes, sweating and muscle spasms. At this stage you’ll need to get to the hospital before hypertension and an elevated heartbeat occur, which can lead to death.

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21/10/2015 5:31 am

TOPFIVE

SHARK CAGE DIVING

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Photo: Adventure Bay Charters

1

DIVE WITH SHARKS Have you ever thought about diving with great white sharks? Perhaps the thought of getting into a cage is putting you off. Well never fear, in Port Elizabeth you can dive without even getting wet.

The ocean’s scariest predator is a fascinating creature attracting an estimated 9000 tourists every year to Port Lincoln. Visitors want to see the magnificent creature in its natural habitat.

The owner of Adventure Bay Charters, Matt Waller has come up with a clever way for visitors to encounter sharks without getting wet.

“I could see there was an angle of people getting in there without getting wet, scared, too cold or impatient, all which can contribute to not having a good time,” said Waller.

He invented the first submersible glass viewing area, strong 34

enough to plunge into depths where the sharks move about.

“It’s amazing how people can be entertained with wine, food and good stories,” said Waller.

He claims that all the action shot in the blockbuster movie Jaws was shot at this very site.

The company does not use bait to attract sharks and is committed to preservation.

“This is a wildlife experience. We provide access to sharks - we do not promise sharks.”

If it’s shark cage diving that you want to do then they have that to. As the creators of Australia’s first advanced eco-certified shark cage diving experience, visitors have the opportunity to view sharks from a cage and if that isn’t enough consider swimming with sealions or taking the ultimate marine full day shark adventure. adventurebaycharters.com.au

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Come face to face with the oceans ultimate predator - The Great White Shark!

The only place in Australia you can do this All equipment and meals included Magnificent stabilised vessel for prime viewing and photographic opportunities Current shark sightings listed on our website

Follow us on Instagram @calypsostarcharters

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14/10/2015 5:53 am

TOPFIVE

SHARK CAGE DIVING

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Photo: Calypso Star

Photo: Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions

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SHARK CAGE DIVING CALYPSO STAR

RODNEY FOX SHARK EXPEDITIONS

Jump onboard the MV Calypso Star II for an exciting day of adventure, education and fun. Viewing great white sharks in their natural habitat will leave you with memories that will last for years.

The 1-day charters are an Australian first with Port Lincoln being the only place in the country where these charters are run. Ideal if you have limited time or budget and you can do this without a diving qualification. sharkcagediving.com.au

They claim to be the world’s first and original great white shark diving company so rest assured they have plenty of experience.

Tours depart seasonally from North Quay Boulevard in Port Lincoln to the beautiful Neptune Islands.

What puts them a head of the game is they also offer two to four day expeditions where you get to stay on location in a cabin. Imagine the excitement of that. rodneyfox.com.au

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Okay so not strictly cage diving, but if you’ve travelled to the other side of the world, why not learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef.

Courses last for seven days and start in the pool, before moving out on the reef itself. Expect to be part of group and be part of a real bonding session as you spend nights on the vessel and hostel in Cairns.

If you’re feeling confident toward the end of the course have ago at a night dive and see how different types of fish and sharks come out to play as the sea turns black. xtremegapyear.co.uk

Have you a lways wanted to go shark cage diving and see the great white shark up-close?

Come eye to eye with a great white shark in the safety of a cage that gives you the opportunity to enjoy the excitement & adrenalin rush while keeping in a safe environment.

The local department of conservation estimated there could be over 100 great whites in the area off the northern Titi Islands which is about 3 km from Oban Stewart Island, so you chances of seeing one is high. sharkcagediving.co.nz

Photos: iStock, unless otherwise credited.

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Hobart The pretty, historic Tassie capital is far more than a few old buildings and a stunning setting. It’s also home to some of Australia’s tastiest offerings and arguably its best museum WORDS ALEX HARMON

Maybe it’s because I have such a big nose, but I’ve always been influenced by smell. Sometimes this is a good thing – coffee brewing in the café below my house wakes me up every morning. And I know how to get to Chinatown in any city. But a few hours into my trip to Hobart and I’m being met with the distinct smell of shit. Or is it vomit? I couldn’t be sure. It was pungent, nauseating and it knocked me for six. I was three-storeys underground in a room carved out of a mountain and I couldn’t believe my nose. After all, I was in a museum, not a sewer in Rotorua.

The Museum of New and Old Art, or MONA, as it is affectionately known, is a weird and wonderful place, where ancient Egyptian mummies are placed next to an overweight Lamborghini. Still, what is that smell?

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SMELLS LIKE GREEN SPIRIT Everybody around me could smell it. They looked at each other perplexed. It was worse than any zoo I’d visited.

People in museums are inherently polite, but you could hear whispers of disbelief as they furiously checked their guidebooks for clarification. I checked the walls for plaques, but nothing could define this smell. I decided I had to question an official-looking woman. With nostrils of steel, she answered, without even flinching: “Oh, it’s the excrement machine, it mimics the human intestinal system.”

I had heard that MONA is famous for its shock-factor. But I was expecting a few phallic shaped sculptures and some wild pubic hair brush-strokes – not this.

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“We feed it twice a day and it poos daily. You’ve just missed the 2pm release of faeces, but you can see it over there on the conveyor belt.”

And there it was – a prize dump, fresh and still streaming before my very eyes. There was a row of machines representing the digestive system, breaking down the food, churning it around like soiled washing machines.

“You never know what you’re going to get, yesterday it was runny,” I overheard the guide. We were lucky to see this solid, chorizo-shaped poo. The Mona Lisa of shits. My guidebook, which is actually an iPhone-like device, tells me this is Cloaca Professional, by Belgian artist Wim Delvoye.

The closer you got, the more horrid the smell. And yet, now that my brain has registered this healthy looking shit,

the smell was kind of intriguing. Just one more whiff before I go. If this was the ground level, what else was I in for?

MOANS OF DELIGHT MONA is the brainchild of Hobart-born David Walsh, a selfmade millionaire, professional gambler, university drop-out and all-round eccentric. He owns the museum and everything in it, therefore he has this I-can-do-whatever-the-fuck-I-want attitude, which is exactly what I love about this museum.

This subterranean collection of art could inspire even the most terrified of art-phobics. In fact, the first exhibition is a bar, which we all know helps you digest the experience.

Digest? Uh-oh, there’s that smell again.

Walsh is also fascinated with death, from the suicide

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Honestly, if I was on death row, I think my last meal would come from Hobart

”

machine, to the collection of funeral songs on a jukebox to the cinerarium where, for $75,000, you can put your ashes on display. I was enamored with the anal lipstick kisses that are prettily pressed on hotel paper. Don’t ask. They are exactly as they sound, and perhaps a great idea for a Valentine’s Day card, for those who have exhausted every other avenue.

That didn’t come out right. MONA has certainly perverted me.

Then there’s the simple – the white library where the books and bookcases are all painted white.

This is the calm before the storm. Outside you are met with 200 porcelain vagina moulds, like the anal kisses, each one tells a different story.

Walsh doesn’t call it the “subversive adult Disneyland” for nothing. It might not be for everyone but I can tell you there’s nothing cheap about it. For a gallery full of shit and genitals it’s surprisingly tasteful. Seriously, MONA makes the sex museum in Amsterdam look like a tacky hen’s night.

SENSORY DELIGHTS After spending several hours engrossed in MONA, we return to the ferry and let the clean air breeze through our hair as we make our way back into the heart of Hobart.

MONA is on the outskirts of town – the nether-regions if you will. With Mount Wellington looking over our shoulders and the sun slowly setting, we figure it’s time to taste some of Tassie’s more savoury delights.

Lark Distillery.

Part shed, part distillery. All good.

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Honestly, if I was on death row, I think my last meal would come from Hobart. Famous for its cheese, chocolate, salmon and wine, my taste buds were already in heaven.

In Salamanca Place, the old factories of Hobart’s port have been converted into restaurants and bars and are the perfect setting for sunset drinks. After a glass of Tasmanian sparkling white, I’m informed about the Tasmanian red I must try. Not one to be rude I order a glass of this and a selection of local cheeses. I spend some time with my new friends; brie, blue, gruyère and mature chedder, and then I’m informed about the locally-brewed beer that I must try. Oh and don’t leave Tassie without trying the smoked salmon pizza. It’s like I’m in a Vicar of Dibley Christmas special, I can’t stop eating.

I order a pint of Moo, the award-winning micro-beer brewed at Moorilla estate (also at MONA). I had been mistaken in thinking my two choices in Tassie would be working-class Boag’s and convict-era Cascade. Sure, those beers are still very much present (Cascade belongs to Hobart), but that’s what I love about Hobart, it’s an old town with a new injection of lifeblood. In a 200-year-old factory I am drinking a hip-new beer as I watch old men in fedora hats mixing with young hipsters… also in fedora hats.

I soon discover the locally made pepperberry gin, choosing an Appletini at the Lark Distillery, a bar that makes their own single-malt whiskey, vodka and gin. One thing I’ve noticed is that although I’m working my way through a periodic table of booze, it’s still daylight outside.

I’m told that summer in Hobart has the longer days than any other city in Australia. I’m drunk, it’s pushing 9pm and I can still see clearly outside. It never feels like it’s home-time.

Bottoms up, Hobart.

HIP HOP HOBART I awake the next morning after having the kind of crazy dreams that are brought on by too much cheese – or by exposure to art that makes you wonder how you’d go about applying lipstick to your bum. Extended daylight or not, a hangover is a hangover. And a hangover in Hobart means a return to Salamanca Place.

On a Saturday morning the place is transformed into a wonderful market full of local treasures and produce. We elbow our way into a café and have the most satisfying bagel – with Tasmanian salmon of course. It seems every Hobartian is out this morning even though the weather is crisp. There are musicians on every corner, ranging from folk-rock groups to the nine-year old kid who got a violin for Christmas. It all adds to the charm of the place, the old and new, the young and old. In the market I buy some marmalade for my Nan and some chilli beer for my hangover.

For such a little city, Hobart’s got a surprisingly upbeat nature. A place where a professional gambler isn’t begging on the streets, but opening the biggest (and I dare say, best) art galley in Australia. Where you can mistake a granddad for a member of an indie band. A place where even the shit don’t stink, once you get to know it. ❚

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Tale of two cities Cascade or Boag’s? Cataract Gorge or Mt Wellington? Hobart or Launceston? Which city is the jewel in Tasmania’s crown?

WORDS DAMIAN HALL

Launceston As far as great rivalries go, Launceston versus Hobart is right up there with Communism versus Capitalism, Manchester United versus Liverpool and Danger Mouse versus Baron Greenback. They each have their own half of the Apple Isle, their own brand of beer and a proud tribalism.

The competitive cities are symbolic of a great divide that stretches to the rest of Tasmania. You thought Korea had some kind of division? Pah. The north and south have separate bank holidays, tend not to stock each other’s beer and there’s a six-foot brick wall spread across the state (some of that isn’t entirely true, but you get the picture). So, which city should be champion?

THE VIBE Lovely Launie, or the “Garden City”, has a small town English feel: narrow streets, quaint, alluring tea shops, creaking old mills, under-populated parks and cosy enticing pubs with the sound the narrow well-preserved streets. In Hobart, the waterfront is awash with cafés, pubs, sails and fishing boats – it wouldn’t look out place in Cornwall – all nestling under the protective slopes of Mount Wellington, standing like a protective father over his beautiful daughter. On top of what you see, just breathe the air. It’s thought to be the freshest in the world.

BEER & FOOD Don’t mention the “c” word (no not that one, we mean Cascade) in Launie. Ask any Launcestarian to name the country’s best beer and, without hesitation, they’ll say Boag’s. And they could well be right. You can tour the Boag’s Brewery, learn about the fine beverage’s history, how it’s made and have a good sup of their award-winning beers.

But it’s the pubs – as near to a friendly English local as you can get Down Under – which are really worth spending time in.

To line your stomach you’ll stumble across Thai, Italian, Chinese and the good old-fashioned Aussie steak house on your walk around the town centre.

Hobart is a town where the population nearly starved many years back because the colony’s wheat supply was used to brew beer. You could say they like their ale here. Needless to say you’ll only get one answer to the “best beer” question and it’s the famous Cascade. Whatever you do, don’t get the two mixed up.

Tours of the picturesque brewery are a wise and popular choice.

Hobart’s nightlife is focused round the water and the area around the docks. Salamanca Place houses many historic pubs, including the oldest in Australia, licensed in 1804. Salamanca in particular has a lively nightlife, with clubs and backstreet parties strewn among the old sandstone pubs. Sandy Bay is also popular

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Mount Wellington

with Hobart’s young things. East Hobart is excellent for a lively mish-mash of Thai, Mediterranean and boutique restaurants.

OUT & ABOUT As well as the Cataract Gorge (you can take a paddle steamer cruise up it), Launceston’s Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery is excellent. Then there’s the 19th century watermills, windmills, gunpowder mills and model boats. A TNT fave is the City Park, which has an open-air enclosure of entertaining Japanese macaque monkeys. They’re cheeky they are, those monkeys.

As well as Hobart’s Cascade brewery, Saturday’s famous Salamanca Markets live up to all the hype and the (free) Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is worth setting an hour or two aside for, as well as MONA of course. But our fave is a climb up Mount Wellington (1,270m, five-six hours return), with a hair re-arranging mountain bike ride back down. Plus, there’s sunset sea kayaking, harbour cruises and the botanical gardens for a bit of a picnic. See baby wombats, Tasmanian devils and hand-feed some ‘roos in the Bonorong Wildlife Park. Chomp on the brown stuff in the Cadbury’s Factory. So, yup, pretty boring place really.

never seen – Wineglass Bay. Plus, there’s the magical, otherworldly Bay of Fires further up the east coast. A little closer to base camp is the Tamar Valley Wineries to wine and dine yourself at.

It’s a hard act to follow, but Hobart manages it. Firstly there’s former convict hell-hole Port Arthur just round the corner, which offers a fascinating insight into the island’s harrowing past. You can tour the ruins of a prison meant to be the worst of the worst and the mood is best captured on a night-time ghost tour. Tassie’s most popular national park, Mt Field NP, is nearby and boasts numerous short and long walks across high alpine areas, round glacial lakes and the gushing Russell Falls. It doubles as a small ski field in winter. Lastly there’s Bruny Island; for discreet beaches and excellent, quiet, bushwalking, this idyllic isle takes some beating.

Still can’t decide which you’d prefer? Better visit both then...

YOU’RE TRIPPIN’ Launie is only a couple of hours from arguably the most beautiful (or at least most easily accessible beautiful place) in Tassie: the much-photographed Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park. No-one should go to Tassie without popping here. For somewhere way, way quieter try the next-door Walls Of Jerusalem National Park. The stunning Freycinet National Park is around two hours away too. A 40-minute up-hill walk takes you to a view of one the most beautiful beaches you’ve 42

The locals on Bruny Island.

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Burrunggui Lookout in Kakadu

KAKADU NATIONAL PARK Covering an area that’s the same size as Belgium and housing some of the great cultural and natural wonders of the world, Kakadu is certainly worth the hype. Located about three hours southeast of Darwin, it is a place you should explore by car, preferably 4WD, with some of the most popular sights lying at a fair distance from each other.

The stand out attractions are the site of Ubirr, where the rock-art is estimated to be up to 8,000 years old, Nourlangie rock located in an outlying formation of the Arnhem Land Escarpment, and a cruise along the Yellow Water wetlands – one of those rare places where reality matches expectation.

We’d recommend a trip to the remote and spectacular Twin Falls that descends from an elevation of 158 metres above sea level via a series of tiers that range in height between 44

44–51 metres and the nearly 220 metres high Jim Jim Falls, which can be reached along a 4WD track that turns south off the Kakadu Highway between the Nourlangie and Cooinda turn-offs. Maguk Gorge (formerly Barramundi Gorge) is also well worth a visit – a lovely spot for relaxing and swimming – as is Gubara. This pretty six kilometre trail ends at a rainforest cloaked chain of rock pools.

Be prepared to spend several days in Kakadu. The UNESCO-listed park is larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Everglades combined, so it will take a while to explore.

There are lots of accommodation options availalbe within the national park. We are fans of the park-run camping areas. The park-run campsites have no booking system, so places are allocated on a first-come, firstserved basis. For camping outside of

designated camping areas you will need a camping permit. If you prefer a bit more comfort choose from resortstyle hotels, self-contained cabins or budget rooms. Best to do some research before you go.

Boasting thundering waterfalls (at their most spectacular during the wet season), ancient rock art and the world’s biggest crocs (the Corroboree Billabong has the largest concentration of saltwater crocs in the world), this is one of Australia’s must-see destinations and has something to offer every traveller on any budget.

The dry season runs from June to September and is the most popular time of the year for visitors. Prices can be dramatically lower during the wet season, yes it rains in Australia to, so it might be worth just bringing an umbrella. kakadu.com.au

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LITCHFIELD NATIONAL

NITMILUK NATIONAL PARK

Situated about an hour-and-a-half down the road from Darwin on the Stuart Highway, it is the perfect place to cool off, (swim between May and October) boasting several magnificent rock and plunge pools, cascading waterfalls and tropical walks. A splash under Florence Falls is pure heaven.

The park is packed with animals and birds and the spangled drongo is one to look out for.

The nearly 3,000sq km park is owned by the Jawoyn Aboriginal people, who hold great ceremonial significance to the landscape. There are numerous walking trails ranging from strolls along the riverbanks to overnight walks and a five-day walk from Katherine Gorge to Edith Falls. The 58km Jatbula Trail passes waterfalls, monsoon rainforest, stone country and Aboriginal rock art, and ends at Leliyn, a tranquil camping ground. nitmiluktours.com.au

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KATHERINE GORGE One of the Northern Territories’ biggest attractions, and a visit to the area is not complete without coming here.

The gorge, known by the aboriginal name Nitmiluk, is the central attraction of the park and is made up of 13 separate gorges linkedby a maze of sandstone-framed waterways. Visitors cruise in flatbottomedboats, canoe, and swim or walk to explore the magnificent gorges. katherinegorge.com

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KATHERINE HOT SPRINGS The naturally beautiful thermal springs comprise of a series of clear pools framed by native vegetation, and water temperatures average 32 degrees. Once, the main pool was simply an indentation at the edge of the Katherine River, but now the area is a place to relax, enjoy swimming in the pools, the picnic grounds and scenic walking tracks, which are crystal clear pools of water winding through the shade of trees to the river. visitkatherine.com.au

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DOUGLAS HOT SPRINGS

If you’re into horse riding, fishing and country-style hospitality, Mount Bundy Station is the perfect detour, three kilometres off the highway after Adelaide River.Mount Bundy is a working cattle station, but its overnight options are far removed from your average cowshed. The original station buildings have become spotless guest accommodation, plus there are luxury safari tents if you want to sleep under the stars. There are 4WD tours and plenty of animals on the property − guided horse rides cost $60 for two hours, with overnight treks by arrangement. mtbundy.com.au

Photos: Thinkstock, iStock and Tourism NT

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MOUNT BUNDY STATION

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The hot springs is one of the most popular attractions.

The water is too hot where it first reaches the surface and can only be safely entered once it has mixed with cooler water from a tributary creek. The springs are 130km from Katherine and 200km from Darwin. If you are travelling south, take the Old Stuart Highway scenic route from Adelaide River. If travelling north take the route just north of Hayes Creek. The last seven kilometres into Tjuwaliyn is a gravel road providing dry season access (May to September) for all vehicles and camping. tourismtopend.com.au

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TIWI ISLANDS

ARNHEM LAND

DARWIN

Bathurst and Melville Islands, known as the Tiwi Islands, lie just off the coast of Darwin. Being cut off from the mainland has made their culture unique – they don’t have didgeridoos or boomerangs, for example. Entry to the Tiwi Islands is by permit only and most visitors come over on one-day tours of Bathurst, the smaller island.

An area of more than 94,000 square kilometres, it is Aboriginal-owned and home to many different clan groups (it is a cultural stronghold from which the didgeridoo originates). Its rugged ranges are fringed by idyllic billabongs, flood plains, paper bark swamps and monsoonal rainforests; an amazingly beautiful wilderness.

Darwin is great because it’s a real mixture between far-flung outpost and holiday resort, it being the centre of the NT’s tropical Top End. It’s known as a laid-back blend of frontier outpost and modern city.

At its heart is the Smith Street pedestrian mall, notable for shops selling Aboriginal art. Parts of the waterfront are lively and great for a night out. australia.com/darwin

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SYDNEY STAY Base Sydney 477 Kent St. CBD.

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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 The Metro metrotheatre.com.au

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

Manly

bunkhouse.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

The Entrance Backpackers 2/56 The Entrance Road, The Entrance, 2261 02 4334 5005 theentrancebackpackers.com Skydive Central Coast Warnervale. skydivethecentralcoast.com.au

BYRON BAY Backpackers Holiday Village 116 Jonson St

The Arts Factory 1 Skinners Shoot Rd. Nomads Byron Bay Lawson Lane.

Byron Bay YHA 7 Carlyle St. Skydive the Beach Byron Bay Kingsford Smith Park, Ballina 1800 302 005 skydivethebeachbyronbay.com

COFFS HARB Coffs Harbour YHA 51 Collingwood St. Harbour City Holiday Park 123 Pacific Highway

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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SYDNEY DO

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

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

Byron Bay Accom 02 6680 8666, byronbayaccom.net

Manly Surf School Manly Beach. 02 9977 6977, manlysurfschool.com

Oceanworld Manly West Esplanade. oceanworld.com.au

Coogee Beachside 178 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee.

02 9315 8511, sydneybeachside.com.au

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

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

Wake Up! 509 Pitt St, CBD.

Lochner’s Guesthouse 27 Paul St. Bondi.

02 9389 5421

Coogee Beach House 171 Arden St. Coogee.

02 9665 1162, coogeebeachhouse.com

BLUE MTNS

THE MANLY BUNKHOUSE

1800 350 388, byronbaybackpackers.com.au

Skydive the Beach Wollongong. skydivethebeach.com Sydney Olympic Park Darling Harbour. sopa.nsw.gov.au Sydney Tower and Skywalk 100 Market St, CBD. sydneytowereye.com.au Sydney Harbour Bridge The Rocks. bridgeclimb.com

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

Sydney

bridgeclimb.com

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HOBART STAY

LAUNCESTON DO

CHECK IN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DEVONPORT

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

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

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

Launceston

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

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

arthousehostel.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

@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

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

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VICLISTINGS

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MELBOURNE STAY All Nations Nomads 2 Spencer St. Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda.

Central Melbourne Accommodation 21 Bromham Place, Richmond.

03 9427 9826, centralaccommodation.net 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. Nomads Melbourne 198 A’beckett St. Space Hotel 380 Russell St. 1800 670 611, spacehotel.com.au The Spencer 475 Spencer St. 1800 638 108, spencerbackpackers.com.au Back of Chapel 50 Green St, Windsor College Lawn Hotel 36 Greville St, Prahran collegelawnhotel.com.au

Hotel Discovery 167 Franklin St hoteldiscovery.com.au

Melbourne International Backpackers 450 Elizabeth St mibp.com.au Melbourne Metro YHA 78 Howard St yha.com.au Melbourne Central YHA 562 Flinders St, Melbourne yha.com.au St Arnaud 99 Park St, South Yarra, starnaudguesthouse.com The Spencer City Central BP 475 Spencer St spencerbackpackers.com.au The Nunnery 116 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy nunnery.com.au 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 Coffee Palace Backpackers 24 Grey St coffeepalacebackpackers.com.au Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Rd, thehabitathq.com.au Oslo Hotel 38 Grey St oslohotel.com.au The Ritz for Backpackers 169 Fitzroy St, St Kilda ritzbackpackers.com St Kilda Beach House 109 Barkly St, St Kilda stkildabeachhouse.com.au

MELBOURNE DO Australian Centre for the Moving Image Federation Square.

03 8663 2200, acmi.net.au

Claremont Guesthouse 189 Toorak Rd, South Yarra hotelclaremont.com

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

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

Discovery Melbourne 167 Franklin St. discoverymelbourne.com

Elephant Backpackers 250 Flinders St elephantbackpacker.com.au

Melbourne Cricket Ground Brunton Av. 03 9657 8888 mcg.org.au

Elizabeth Hostel 490 Elizabeth St elizabethhostel.com.au King St Backpackers 160 King Street kingstreetbackpackers.com.au

CHECK IN

Lords Lodge Backpackers 204 Punt Rd lordslodge.com.au

THE ISLAND ACCOMMODATION 10-12 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes. Prices from $30 per person in a multi bed dorm. An award-winning ecofriendly accommodation complex which provides a gateway to Phillip Island.

Phillip Island

theislandaccommodation.com.au

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 40 Noble St, Anglesea.

03 5263 2664, angleseabackpackers.com.au Apollo Bay Eco YHA 5 Pascoe St. yha.com.au Great Ocean Road Backpackers 10 Erskine Av, Lorne.

03 5289 1070, greatoceanroadcottages.com Port Campbell Hostel 18 Tregea St, Port Campbell.

03 5598 6305, portcampbellhostel.com.au Surfside Backpackers Cnr Great Ocean Rd & Gambier St, Apollo Bay. 1800 357 263, surfsidebackpacker.com

MORNINGTON

Melbourne Museum 11 Nicholson St, Carlton.

13 11 02 melbourne.museum.vic.gov.au

Bayplay Lodge 46 Canterbury Jetty Rd, Blairgowrie.

03 5988 0188, bayplay.com.au

National Gallery of Victoria

Sorrento Foreshore Reserve

Nepean Hwy. 1800 850 600, mornpen.vic.gov.au

beachpark.com.au BIG4 Inverloch Holiday Park 2 Cuttriss St, Inverloch.

03 5674 1447, inverlochholidaypark.com.au

Sorrento YHA 3 Miranda St, Sorrento.

Tortoise Head Lodge French Island.

03 5980 1234, tortoisehead.net

BIG4 Phillip Island Caravan Park 24 Old Bridge Dr, Newhaven.

03 5956 7227, phillipislandcpk.com.au

DANDENONG Emerald Backpackers 03 5968 4086

Cowes Caravan Park 164 Church St, Cowes.

03 5952 2211, cowescaravan.com.au

MURRAY RIVER Echuca Gardens YHA 103 Av, Mitchell St, Echuca.

Koala Park Resort 1825 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes.

03 5952 2176, koalaparkresort.com.au

Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Ave, Mildura.

03 5022 7922, milduracitybackpackers.com.au Oasis Backpackers 230 Deakin Av, Mildura.

04 0734 4251, milduraoasisbackpackers.com.au

GIPPSLAND Prom Coast YHA Backpackers 0427 875 735 Cambrai Hostel Maffra 117 Johnson St, Maffra.

1800 101 113 maffra.net.au/hostel

PHILLIP ISLAND Amaroo Park YHA 97 Church St, Cowes.

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,

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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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

AROUND NOOSA A couple of great ways to see Noosa is getting environmentally friendly on a bike or in a canoe. Take a mountain bike tour on trails that will lead you to the best photo opportunities in town. General bike hire starts from $20 for two hours, more for tours. Likewise, hop in a canoe and paddle yourself around the quays of Noosaville and Noosa River. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, head out on a guided five-day trip into Upper Noosa River, with side walks to Cooloola Sandpatch and Teewah Coloured Sands. For more info see elanda.com.au

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 Balmoral House 33 Amelia St, Fortitude Valley vipbackpackers.com Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St The Elephant Hotel 230 Wickham St

54

elephanthotel.com.au Somewhere to Stay Cnr Brighton Rd & Franklin St somewheretostay.com.au The Palace Backpackers Cnr Anne & Edward St backpackbrisbane.com Tin Billy Travellers 462 George St tinbilly.com

BRISBANE DO Australia Zoo Glasshouse Mountains, Tourist Drive, Beerwah.

07 5436 2000, australiazoo.com.au Gallery of Modern Art Australian and international paintings, sculptures and decorative art.

07 3840 7303, qag.qld.gov.au Riverlife Adventure Centre Kayaking & rock climbing.

Lower River Terrace, Kangaroo Point.

07 3891 5766, riverlife.com.au Story Bridge Adventure Climb 170 Main St, Kangaroo Point.

1300 254 627, storybridgeadventureclimb. com.au

XXXX Brewery Tours & Ale House Brewery tours.

Cnr Black & Paten St, Milton.

07 3361 7597, xxxxalehouse.com. au

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.

Budds in Surfers 6 Pine Ave, Budds Beach, Surfers Paradise 07 5538 9661, buddsinsurfers.com.au Gold Coast International BP 28 Hamilton Ave, Surfers.

1800 816 300, goldcoastbackpackers.com.au Islander Backpackers Resort 6 Beach Rd, Surfers.

1800 074 393, islander.com.au Sleeping Inn Surfers 26 Peninsular Dr, Surfers Paradise.

07 5592 4455, sleepinginn.com.au Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort 2837 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers.

1800 282 800, surfersparadisebackpackers. com.au Surfers Paradise YHA Mariners Cove, 70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, Surfers Paradise.

Trekkers Backpackers 22 White St, Southport.

07 5591 5616, trekkersbackpackers.com.au

Zorb 07 5547 6300

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

1800 020 120 mooloolababackpackers.com

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

Nomads Islander Resort 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd,

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

Surf & Sun Backpackers 3323 Surfers Paradise Blvd surfnsun-goldcoast.com

Skydive Rainbow Beach 0418 218 358, skydiverainbowbeach.com

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

seaworld.com.au

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

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

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FRASER ISLAND

AIRLIE BEACH

Eurong Beach Resort 07 4120 1600, eurong.com.au

airliebeach.com 259 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 677 119

Palace Adventures 184 Torquay St, Hervey Bay, 1800 063 168 palaceadventures.com.au

Airlie Beach YHA 394 Shute Harbour Rd.

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

Backpackers by the Bay 12 Hermitage Dr. 1800 646 994, backpackersbythebay.com Base Airlie Beach Resort 336 Shute Harbour Rd Magnums Whitsunday Village Resort 366 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 624 634 magnums.com.au

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN!

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

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

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

07 4783 1519, yongaladive.com.au

MAGNETIC IS

and fast food joints to help with yourBase Gilligan's hangover.

Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd. The Friendly Hostel 13:00: Continuing north of Port Douglas you’ll land in 182 Torquay Rd, Hervey Bay Bungalow Bay Backpackers Mossmanfriendlyhostel.com.au Gorge (mossmangorge.com.au).

At Daintree Horseshow Bay. NationalWoolshed Park the gorge is a must-see.1800 Once you’ve trekked Backpackers 285 577, 181path Torquayyou’ll Road be able to give your bungalowbay.com.au along the feet a rest and woolshedbackpackers.com.au Hotel Arcadia admire the crystal clear Mossman River that cascades over 7 Marine Parade, Arcadia Bay. granite boulders.

07 4778 5177, BUNDABERG hotelaracadia.com.au 15:00: Heading back to the car and continuing north Federal Backpackers 221 Bourbong St. 07 4153 3711 Pleasure Divers you’ll find yourself at Cape Tribulation. Check out Ferntree federalbackpackers.com.au 07 4778 5788 Rainforest Lodge (ferntreerainforestlodge.com.au) Northside Backpackers which has classic tables.

They 12 Queen St.huts with a bar and wooden MISSION BEACH 07 4154 1166 meals night and day. After eating it’s serve scrumptious Absolute Backpackers Wongaling Bundaberg time to enjoy theBondstore delights of the Cape28 with a Croc cruise Beach Road.

Distillery tours.

07 4068 8317,wildlife cruise (daintreerivercruises.com.au) A one hour 07 4131 2999 absolutebackpackers.com.au bundabergrum.com.au that lets you spot wild animals in their natural habitat. Be Beach Shack DingoBlue Backpackers warned: don’t walk too close to any mangroves, you might 86 Porters Promenade 11 Burrum St, Bundaberg QLD 4670 missionbeachshack.com get an unwanted 07 4152 0100 snap.

19:00: Withdingobluebackpackers.com all that excitement it’s time to head back Scotty’s Beach House 167 Reid Rd. 07 4068 8676, Mid As Pointthe Backpackers towards Grand Cairns. evening settles, head straight into the scottysbeachhouse.com.au 87-89 Bourbong St, Bundaberg 4670 city centre where 07 4151 0003 there is wide array of restaurants for you Jackaroo Hostel Mission Beach grandhotelbundy.com.au to pick from along the main strip.

Frizelle Rd, Bingil Bay jackaroohostel.com 19:00: And it wouldn't be true Cairns experience without TOWN OF 1770 Mission Retreat dancing the night away at The Woolshed Beach (thewoolshed.

49 Porters Promenade 1770 Backpackers com.au).6 Captain With Cook themed nights on everymissionbeachretreat.com.au night, try your luck Dr. 1800T-shirt 121 770, competitions or see how you fare in their in the wet the1770backpackers.com CAIRNS STAY Mexican drinking games. Either way you'll end your Cairns 1770 Undersea Adventures Bohemia Central Cairns trip on a1300 high.

553 889, 100 Sheridan St. 1800 558 589, 1770underseaadventures.com.au

. . .

E R E H Y L L A IN F E ’R YOU

bhacentral.com.au

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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Bohemia Resort Cairns 231 McLeod St. 1800 155 353 bohemiaresort.com.au

Lot 5, Buchanan Creek Rd, Cow Bay. 07 4098 9166, crocodyluscapetrib.com

Noosa Backpackers 9-13 William St, Noosaville noosabackpackers.com

Calypso Backpackers 5 Digger St. 1800 815 628, calypsobackpackers.com.au

PK’s Jungle Village Cnr Avalon & Cape Trib Rd. 1800 232 333,

Halse Lodge YHA 2 Halse Lane, Noosa.

1800 242 567, halselodge.com.au

pksjunglevillage.com.au

JJ’s Backpackers Hostel 11 Charles St. 07 4051 7642, jjsbackpackers.com

INNISFAIL

NJoy Backpackers Hostel Harbour 141 Sheridan St. 1800 807 055, njoy.net.au

Innisfail Budget Backpackers Worker’s Hostel 125 Edith St. 07 4061 78337

Nomads Beach House 239 Sheridan St.

Walkabout Motel & ackpackers 07 4061 2311 walkaboutbackpackers.com

Northern Greenhouse 117 Grafton Street.

1800 229 228, northerngreenhouse.com.au

CAIRNS DO AJ Hackett Bungy jumping & canyon swinging. 1800 622 888 cairns.ajhackett.com Go Wild Jungle Tours Day tours to Daintree Rainforest.

07 4041 9440, jungletours.com.au Pro Dive 07 4031 5255 prodivecairns.com Raging Thunder Adventures Whitewater rafting.

07 4030 7990, ragingthunder.com.au Skydive Cairns POBOX 105N Cairns 07 4052 1822, skydivecairns.com.au

CAPE TRIB Crocodylus Village

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

Dolphins Beach House Noosa 14 – 16 Duke Street, Sunshine Beach dolphinsbeachhouse.com

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

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

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

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

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

SUNSHINE COAST Amore on Buderim 27 Earlybird Dr, Buderim amoreonbuderim.com.au Buderim Motor Inn 45 King St, Buderim buderimmotorinn.com Bli Bli House B&B 600 David Low Way, Pacific Paradise.

@tnt_downunder buderimmotorinn.com Beach Front Towers 4 Aerodrome Rd, Marochydore beachfronttowers.com.au Cotton Tree Beachouse 15 the Esplanade cottontreebackpackers.com The Duporth 6 Wharf St, Maroochydore theduporth.com.au

TOWNSVILLE Adventurers Backpackers 79 Palmer St adventurersresort.com Civic Guest House Backpackers Hostel 262 Walker St civicguesthousetownsville. com.au Foreign Exchange Accommodation Beachside 19 Eyre St, North Ward foreignx.com.au

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

MAGNETIC IS Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd Bungalow Bay Koala Village 40 Horseshoe Bay Rd bungalowbay.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

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

A one-way trip costs from $47. skyrail.com.au.

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NTLISTINGS DARWIN STAY

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KATHERINE STAY

CHECK IN

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

BIG4 Katherine Holiday Park 20 Shadforth Road.

1800 501 984, big4.com.au

Darwin YHA 97 Mitchell St.

Palm Court Kookaburra Backpackers Third St. 08 8972 2722

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

KATHERINE DO

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

Airborne Solutions Scenic helicopter flights.

08 8972 2345 airbornesolutions.com.au

Gecko Lodge 146 Mitchell St. 1800 811 250, geckolodge.com.au

ALICE LODGE

Melaleuca on Mitchell 52 Mitchell St. 1300 723 437, momdarwin.com

4 Mueller St, Alice Springs. Dorms $27 This quirky hostel offers superb access to the Red Centre and an outback full of wonder, red earth and giant monoliths just waiting to be explored.

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

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

08 8981 0700, deckchaircinema.com.au

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

Alice Springs

alicelodge.com.au

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

08 8999 8264, magnt.nt.gov.au

Oz Jet Boating Stokes Hill Wharf.

1300 135 595, ozjetboating.com.au Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise Adelaide River.

08 8978 9077, jumpingcrocodile.com.au Wave Lagoon Waterfront Precinct. waterfront.nt.gov.au

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

ALICE SPRINGS Alice Lodge 4 Mueller St. 08 8953 1975, alicelodge.com.au Alice Springs YHA Cnr Parsons St & Leichhardt Tce. Haven Resort 3 Larapinta Drive.

1800 794 663, alicehaven.com.au

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Toddy’s Backpackers 41 Gap Rd. ONLINE Rock & Dorm SPECIALS FREECALL 1800 027027 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 74 Todd St “3day Uluru only $350” FREECALL 1800 246345 therocktour.com.au

FLY JETSTAR TO ULURU AIRPORT FROM $99 BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY! 58

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WALISTINGS

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Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St coolibahlodge.com.au

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

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

KALBARRI NATIONAL PARK If you’re fond of a spot of bushwalking but don’t want to rule out a quick escape to the beach then Kalbarri is the place for you. This rugged coastl park covers a massive 1,000 sq km and is packed with both wildlife and wild flowers. It’s centred around a dramatic gorge through which the Murchison River wind, presenting plenty of opportunities for spectacular lookouts.

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

Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St coolibahlodge.com.au

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

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WALISTINGS

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

@tnt_downunder

Crown Perth Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood. 08 9362 7777, crownperth.com.au Kings Park & Botanic Garden bgpa.wa.gov.au Moonlight Cinema Synergy Parklan, Kings Park, Perth. moonlight.com.au Perth Mint 310 Hay St. 08 9421 7223, perthmint.com.au Perth Zoo 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth. 08 9474 3551, perthzoo.wa.gov.au Penguin Island 153 Arcadia Drive (corner of Penguin Road), Shoalwater, Perth.

08 9591 1333, penguinisland.com.au 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

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

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St George’s Cathedral 38 St George’s Terrace, Perth. 08 9325 5766, perthcathedral.org The Perth Mint 310 Hay Street,

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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 The Rosemount Hotel rosemounthotel.com.au The Newport Hotel thenewport.com The Beat Megaclub thebeatmegaclub.com.au Universial Bar universalbar.com.au Ya-Ya’s ya-yas.com.au

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

FREO DO Fremantle Markets Henderson Street Fremantle 08 9335 2515, fremantlemarkets.com.au Fremantle Prison 1 The Terrace.

08 9336 9200, backpackersinnfreo.com.au

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

The Shipwreck Galleries Cliff St, 08 9212 3700, museum.wa.gov.au

Blue Waters Lodge YHA 299 Goldfields Rd,

Fremantle Arts Centre 1 Finnerty Street.

08 9432 9555,

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

EXMOUTH

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SALISTINGS Vivonne Bay Lodge Kangaroo Island

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ADELAIDE STAY

FRE E

WiFi

Vivonne Bay Lodge is in a great central location on the island, close to all the main attractions.

Cook your own BBQ by the large deck and enjoy the great indoor and outdoor facilities provided.

• Twin, family and dormitory style rooms • Shared bathroom facilities • Well equipped lounge/dining and recreation room • Large undercover deck, bar and BBQ • Complimentary use of bikes and kayaks with 2 night stay • Close to Little Sahara for sand boarding, Raptor Domain, Seal Bay, Hanson Bay Wildllfe Sanctuary and Flinders Chase National Park

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 Backpack Oz 144 Wakefield St. 1800 633 307, backpackoz.com.au Blue Galah Backpackers Lvl 1, 52-62, King William St. 08) 8231 9295, bluegalah.com.au Glenelg Beach Hostel 5-7 Moseley St. Glenelg.

1800 359 181, glenelgbeachhostel.com.au Hostel 109 109 Carrington St. 1800 099 318, hostel109.com My Place 257 Waymouth St. 1800 221 529, adelaidehostel.com.au

Call 13 13 01 or visit sealink.com.au

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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

ADELAIDE DO 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 KANGAROO ISLAND Joey may be the star of the show, but sea lions, koala bears, echidnas and penguins often steal the limelight on Kangaroo Island. kiadventuretours.com.au

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Barossa Backpackers 9 Basedow Road, Tanunda.

08 8563 0198, barossa backpackers.com.au

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COOBER PEDY Opal Cave Coober Pedy Hutchinson St. 08 8672 5028, opalcavecooberpedy.com.

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.

Vivonne Bay Lodge Knoefel Drive, Vivonne Bay 13 13 01 vivonnebaylodge.com.au

RIVERLAND Berri Backpackers Sturt Highway, Berri.

08 8582 3144, berribackpackers.com.au Harvest Trail Lodge Loxton. 08 8584 5646, harvesttrail.com.au Nomads on Murray Sturt Highway, Kingston on Murray.

Riverland Backpackers Labour Hire Services 08 8583 0211

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

EYRE PENINSULA Coodlie Park Farmstay Flinders Highway, Port Kenny.

08 8687 0411 coodliepark.com 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 Port Lincoln Tourist Park 11 Hindmarsh St. 08 8621 4444, portlincolntouristpark.com.au Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions Great white shark cage diving.

08 8363 1788 rodneyfox.com.au

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

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NZ TRAVEL

Photo: Destination Great Lake Taupo

NZ TRIP | NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND LISTINGS

GREAT LAKE TAUPO New Zealand is a jolly long way from the rest of civilization, of that there can be no doubt. But sometimes that’s exactly what the soul needs and if you are seeking a little solitude then look no futher than the magnificance of Great Lake Taupo.

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A rocky weekend A cruise around the maritime playground of the Bay of Islands brings on fishy moments, starry memories and salty tastes WORDS MARIE BARBIERI

“

We’re promised a beer if we shoot an Australian called Matilda

”

aim with precision, their beers forming an orderly queue.

Anchoring in a secluded outer Bay of Islands cove, we throw our lines to catch snapper for dinner. And the hunger is on. Crewmember, Nathan, demonstrates how to fillet mullet; bait for our snapper. It’s a bloody mess, filled with flashing memories from high school biology classes.

With surgical precision, Nathan then removes the still-living heart from a caught snapper (hunger rapidly fading). It continues to beat on his hand, hopping around like a scene from a cartoon. Only this is real!

“Now this is iron-rich food guys,” he explains with utter seriousness. Captivated carnivores laugh while queasy vegetarians take a seat. “This nutritious dish is treasured by the indigenous people, so look upon it as a superfood.” Nathan then offers it around the group, calling: “Anyone?” But no sooner than I let out a Hyacinth

Catching up on dinner Photo: Tourism New Zealand, Marie Barbieri

It all seems quite sane at first, zooming away from Paihia wharf in our boat’s launch, sandwiched hip-to-hip with a bunch of shy backpacking strangers. One girl seems oblivious to the world, her eyes penetrating her Fifty Shades of Grey paperback, a guy stabs manically at his iPhone, another clearly the victim of a late night, and doesn’t seem to feel the spray hitting his still-numb face.

And then Jonny, our skipper, comes right out with it: “So, who’s up for a weekend of eating raw fish?” The “Yeaahhhhh!” comes from the token tall Swede, the “Coooool!” from the young German lad, and the “You are not serious I hope?” is eloquently delivered by the older British lady, who looks positively terrified. It’s funny, I’ve never referred to myself as an ‘older British lady’ before.

Helplessly gazing at the luxury cruise ship anchored near the rust-coloured vessel we are headed for, I wonder if I might have booked the wrong type of houseboat experience. I contemplate the three-course celebrity chef-inspired banquets that the gleaming white liner will serve up to its freshly showered and mani/pedi-groomed passengers. I then think of Captain Bligh and his loyal crew who were set adrift in the HMS Bounty’s launch by Fletcher Christian in 1789, and wonder if mutiny is still illegal.

As we near the wild and wacky YHA-run floating hostel, I focus on the positives: I don’t have a humdinger of a hangover; I left my phone at home; and I’ve got a sexy new novel on my list. Plus, I might just survive the next 22 hours as I climb aboard The Rock.

Within minutes, Jonny’s laid-back crew make us feel at home, sipping on beers and mugs of tea as we all exchange names and itineraries. I even get a biscuit!

C’mon, who needs celebrity chefs?

Food for thought It’s target practice time, and we’re promised a free beer if we successfully shoot an Australian called Matilda, who is on board with us today. Matilda is the plastic duck that’s now being tied to the boat’s rear. The Europeans take this with a pinch of salt, but the Kiwis take it seriously. They

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Spot of night kayaking...

Bucket-like nervous shriek, a teenager steps forward with an outstretched hand.

In it went. But it wasn’t like the dreaded challenges in those reality TV shows, where it goes down almost without touching the sides. No, this kid munched, savouring every last capillary, like rolling a fine red wine around the tongue. In (stunned) support, we clapped and cheered.

Our slowly resuscitating olfactory systems tell us that the Scotch steaks and beef sausages have hit the barbeque.

At dinner, only one catch-of-the-day is shared between us (very small and large fish are returned to the water for conservation). But there is plenty for all as we feast on our meats with kumara (the local sweet potato favoured by the Maoris), fresh breads, pasta, rice and beetroot salad around the long table, in the kitchen-cum-diner-cumlounge-cum-bar-cum-pool room.

As night blankets our twinkling boat, satiated stomachs prop against the bar. Others brush round the pool table, as jokes fly between opponents. “You’re shooting with two left feet man!” and “Your balls are zigzagging mate!” and “It’s the boat swaying!” seem to be on constant replay.

The laughter increases and nothing matters. The music is playing, accents are singing, and the drinks are flowing.

But refreshingly, nobody is drunk. Through the exchanges of foreign words and chinking glasses, we all share the common language of escapism.

Starry, starry night With the sun now in a deep sleep, the crew prepare passengers for night-kayaking. “You are in for a real surprise guys!” promises Nathan. So against human nature, we seesaw into our kayaks, torch-less, and paddle into the depths of blackness. That’s until our eyes adjust.

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Lying back, the stars hang from the sky as if on stalks.

“Look down!” someone shouts. Staring into the water, an iridescent blue glitters vividly. This phenomenon erupts into an underwater firework show as our paddles splash the surface. The luminescence of this marine plankton, belonging to the dinoflagellate family, is known as phosphorescence. To night-kayak, using this spectacular plankton as navigational tools, is absolutely magical.

Back on board, Ben, another warm crewmember, summons us to the flickering log fire. We all huddle under itchy blankets, at the end of the candle-lit galley bar. Out comes the guitar, and as Hans from Norway mobilises the piano keys, Ben sings for us, taking on any Beatles or Coldplay requested. It is however unanimously agreed that Britney Spears’ Baby one more time, just doesn’t sit well!

As the firelight fades, we head up to our cosy cabins.

They’re basic, but appropriately decked out in maritime timber, all with water views. Jonny and his wife Sarah have been running this unique institution for the past five years. Their environmentally friendly, converted vehicleferry sleeps up to 36 spirited passengers. The guest book and photo albums reveal that it has heard the snores of backpackers, families with kids and grey nomads. And I too love it here, as I paint my toenails using the moonlight to line up the brushstrokes.

Splashes from belly-flopping British awake me long before the breakfast bell. With the sun still dozing, I slide open my door and place my newly-decorated toes onto the damp balcony that’s coated in a sparkly veil of saltencrusted dew.

“How’s the water?” I shout to a breathless swimmer.

Puffing like last night’s dying snapper, he blabbers, “It… would…cut…the…balls off you!” So that answered my

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Spring... that's the time when

everyone's waiting around for summer to arrive, right?

Not here! Great Lake Taupo is brimming with awesome

activities, things to do, friendly locals and a MASSIVE

Ooh yeah!

lake - all year round!

Ç FREE WIFI

In town and on the lakefront

$

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Heading for the summit

question then. I don’t have the balls (both metaphorically and anatomically) to join him, so instead, do yoga on the sundeck. An American couple join me. Life’s perfect.

We may be in the winterless north of New Zealand, but the chilly morning wind soon ushers us towards a Kiwi breakfast of porridge, fruit and shiver-curing coffee.

Island time After sunrise, we cruise the pristine Bay of Islands. Blue penguins wade by as flocks of storm petrels shadow them.

“Stingrays in the coves attract hammerheads and orca whales!” says Jonny. They remain elusive, but the Soren Larsen tallship doesn’t. All arms frantically wave as we cross, quite literally, like passing ships.

Arriving at Waewaetorea Island, we kayak into Stingray Cove and step onto its toe-warming sand. Some don snorkelling gear, and Ben leads the rest of us on a human ant-trail up to an ancient Maori Pa (fortified settlement).

Conquering the grassy summit, a cathartic canvas unpeels; on one side, the sheltered honey-hued beach; on the other, the churning Pacific.

“Okay guys,” begins Ben, “We’re on the furthest island from the mainland, and just opposite,” he points, “is Motukiekie, a private island.” But the 144 islands in the bay have not always been as peaceful as today.

“Back in 1841, on nearby Motuarohia Island (where Captain Cook dropped anchor in 1769), a scandalous event happened. The 17 year-old son of a Maori chief murdered the family he was working for, and burned their house down. He was the first to be hanged in New Zealand.”

Looping back down to the beach, some play rugby, while others splay like lizards absorbing the mid-day warmth. The snorkelers return, looking pretty hyped up about seeing an octopus in the kelp fields.

An ominous-looking kina, in all its sea-urchin weaponry, 68

sits in the hand of a stupefied snorkeler. “Our lunch!” he offers. Back on The Rock, Nathan invites us to sample the kina’s raw blubbery gizzards. “Drop the grimaces guys,” he says, highly amused. “Kina are endemic to New Zealand and are traditional Maori food. You’d pay a fortune to find this delicacy on a menu.”

Cutting the kina open, he points to its intestines, sex glands and mouth, and then extracts a razor-sharp tooth from it. Then he picks up a spoon! You guessed it. Just like the snapper’s heart, a brave volunteer scoops out the eggs, encased in brown slipperiness, hanging like bird excrement. The group stare, starkly silent. After he performs several involuntary shoulder spasms, not dissimilar to Peter Garrett’s classic dance moves, I dare to ask: “So what’s it like?” No response yet. “Slimy? Salty?

Sour?” to which he finally replies with a gurgled: “YES!” The group catapults into laughter. ❚

Fancy a bite?

Damage and details: Marie travelled with Rock the Boat who run an overnight cruises of the Bay of Islands from $168NZ. Prices include meals and accommodation. See: rocktheboat.co.nz

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TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

Our beds fill up early and clever guests book ahead to secure the best beds and rooms.

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Those clever guests also know our beds are cheaper as a member. So join YHA now from only NZ$25 and get 10% off accommodation, free WiFi and other great benefits too

BOOK YOUR BED AHEAD AND START SAVING NOW! TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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NORTHISLAND AUCKLAND

follow us on experience necessary.

09 359 5987, explorenz.co.nz

BOOK NOW!

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

Auckland 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

KIWI INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

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

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411 Queen St, Auckland. Dorms from $59 Kiwi International Hotel offers quality, value, comfort and friendly service right in the heart of Auckland.

Auckland

kiwihotel.co.nz

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

Auckland Zoo See kiwi birds in the nocturnal house and over 900 animals.

09 360 3800, aucklandzoo.co.nz Coast to Coast Walkway A walk between Waitemata Harbour and Manukau Harbour.

It takes about four hours and takes in Albert Park, Auckland Uni, Auckland Domain, Mt Eden, and One Tree Hill.

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 (BBH) 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 (BBH) 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 (BBH) 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 (BBH) 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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follow us on Te Awamutu District Museum 135 Roche St. 07 872 0085 tamuseum.org.nz

BOOK NOW!

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

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.

Globetrekkers Lodge (BBH) 281 State Highway 12, Omapere, 09 405 8183, globetrekkerslodge.com The Tree House Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 168 West Coast Rd, Motukaraka 09 405 5855, treehouse.co.nz

OTOROHANGA

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.

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

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

BROWN KIWI 7 Prosford St, Ponsonby. Dorms from $26 based on 8 sharing.

An unassuming little hostel, known for being gay friendly and also close to great shopping. Also boasts a neat garden courtyard.

Auckland brownkiwi.co.nz

DOC Office 73, Rostrevor St. 07 858 1000

HAMILTON STAY 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

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

Eagle’s Nest Backpackers 937 Victoria St, 07 838 2704, eaglesbackpackers.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

Microtel YHA 140 Ulster St, 07 957 1848, microtel.co.nz YWCA Hostel Cnr Clarence & Pembroke St, 07 838 2219, hamilton.ywca.org.nz

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

Gold coin donations welcomed.

MATAMATA Rural town famous for being turned into Hobbiton in those films – some of the set still stands.

Hobbiton Movie Set Tours 501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, 07 888 1505, office@hobbitontours.com

CAMBRIDGE

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

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

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

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

The region is famous for its horses and jetboating.

Cambridge Info Centre Cnr Queen and Victoria Sts,

07 823 3456 cambridge.co.nz

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

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

RAGLAN STAY Solscape Eco Retreat Backpackers (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

TE AWAMUTU Given that it calls itself the “Rose Town of New Zealand”, it’s not surprising the 2,000-strong Rose Garden is the town’s major attraction.

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

Otorohanga Visitor Info Centre 27 Turongo St, 07 873 8951, otorohanga.co.nz Otorohanga kiwi House & Native Bird Park 20 Alex Telfer Drive, 07 873 7391, kiwihouse.org.nz

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

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

WAITOMO STAY Juno Hall (BBH) 600 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 878 7649 junowaitomo.co.nz Kiwi Paka Hotel Caves 256, Access Rd, 07 878 3395 waitomokiwipaka.co.nz 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.

Rap Raft ‘n’ Rock Blackwater adventures combining abseiling, rafting, glowworms, caving and rockclimbing all in one five-hour adventure. 0800 228 372, caveraft.com The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co Cave tubing in the blackness of the Ruakuri Cave river. 585 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 878 6219, waitomo.com

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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

TE KUITI STAY Casara Mesa Backpackers (BBH) Mangarino Rd, 07 878 6697, bbh.co.nz Coromandel Top 10 Holiday Park 636-732 Rings Rd, 07 866 8830, coromandeltop10.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.

Coromandel Information Centre 335 Kapanga Rd, 07 866 8598, coromandeltown.co.nz

CORO STAY Anchor Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 448 Wharf Rd,

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07 866 7992, anchorlodgecoromandel.co.nz Black Jack Backpackers Kuaotunu, 07 866 2988, black-jack.co.nz

Fernbird (BBH) 24 Harsant Ave, Hahei, 07 866 3080, bbh.co.nz

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

On the Beach Backpackers Lodge (BBH, YHA) 46 Buffalo Beach Rd, 07 866 5380, onthebeachbackpackers.co.nz

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

Seabreeze Holiday Park (BBH) 1043 SH25 Tairua-Whitianga Rd, 07 866 3050

The Pinnacles Backpackers (BBH) 305 Main Road (SH25), 07 864 8448, pinnaclesbakpak.co.nz

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

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

TAURANGA

Tui Lodge (BBH) 60 Whangapoua Rd, 07 866 8237, coromandeltuilodge.co.nz

One of the fastest growing places in NZ, Tauranga combines a young population with a harbourside atmosphere. Enjoy diving, sailing, fishing and surfing.

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.

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

Whitianga Information Centre 118 Oceanview Rd, 09 372 1234 whitianga.co.nz

Pacific Coast Lodge 432 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui Beach, 0800 666 622 / +64 7574 9601, pacificcoastlodge.co.nz

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

Seagulls Guesthouse (BBH) 12 Hinau Street, 07 574 2099, seagullsguesthouse.co.nz

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

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

Cat’s Pyjamas Backpackers (BBH) 12 Albert St, 07 866 4663, cats-pyjamas.co.nz

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

TAURANGA DO 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

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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 (BBH) 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

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

Roquette Restaurant & Bar 23/29 Quay St. 07 307 0722

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

Wallys on the Wharf 2 The Strand, 07 307 0722,

Hell’s Gate Mud baths to heal and stimulate your body

Whakarewarewa Thermal Village Maori village set amidst a

The Wharf Shed Restaurant 2/2 The Strand E. 07 308 5698

ROTORUA DO

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NORTHISLAND 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 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

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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 (BBH) 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 (BBH) 26 Ngawaka Place, 07 386 8949, extremebackpackers.co.nz Judges Pool Motel 92 Taupahi Rd, 07 386 7892, judgepoolmotel.co.nz

BOOK NOW!

TONGARIRO

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

0800 802 864

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

River Valley Rafting and horse trekking.

06 388 1444, thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz

turangiholidaypark.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 Lazy Dog (BBH) 3 Rangipoia Place, 07 386 0317, lazydogbackpackers.co.nz

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.

Riverstone Backpackers (BBH) 222 Tautahanga Rd, 07 386 7004, riverstonebackpackers.com

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

Settlers Motel 24 Arahori St, 07 386 7745, settlersmotelturangi.co.nz Turangi Kiwi Holiday Park 13 Te Reiti Tamara Grove, 07 386 8754,

follow us on

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

RANGITIKEI DO

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 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.

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

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NAPIER STAY Aqua Lodge (BBH) 53 Nelson Cres, 06 835 4523, bbh.co.nz Archie’s Bunker (BBH) 15 Herschell Street, 06 833 7990, archiesbunker.co.nz 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) - (BBH) 60 Whangapoua Rd, 07 866 8237, coromandeltuilodge.co.nz 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 Waterfront Lodge & Backpackers 217 Marine Pd, 06 835 3429, napierbackpackers.co.nz YHA Napier 277 Marine Parade, 06 835 7039, yha.co.nz

HASTINGS Hastings is 20km south of Napier and most notable for its fertile plains, which have given birth to a multitude of beautiful parks, gardens and farms.

A1 Backpackers (BBH) 122 Stortford St, 06 873 4285, 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.

Visitor Info Centre 100 Marine Parade, 06 834 1911

MOKAU

Depart of Conservation Office Marine Parade, 06 834 3111

Palm House Backpackers taranaki-bakpak.co.nz

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NORTHISLAND

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SPOTLIGHT

The nation’s capital is to many people, New Zealand’s most interesting city.

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

CATHEDRAL COVE MARINE RESERVE A popular holiday destination for Kiwis, in particular Aucklanders, the Coromandel Peninsula boasts scenic bushland, superb beaches and cosy villages. While there is a huge summer pilgrimage to the Coromandel – about an hour’s drive south-east of Auckland – there’s plenty of room for everyone.

NEW PLYMOUTH Taranaki’s major town is New Plymouth. One of NZ’s finest art galleries is here (the GovettBrewster Art Gallery). It hosts a great café.

Department of Conservation 55A Rimu Street, 06 759 0350 New Plymouth Info Centre Puke Ariki, 65 St Aubyn Street, 06 759 0897, visitnewplymouth.co.nz

PLYMOUTH STAY 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

Stratford Heritage Lodge 103 Miranda St, 06 765 7482, eastern-taranaki.co.nz

Hikurangi Stay Place 1 Mount View Road, 06 343 333 stayplace.co.nz

Taranaki Accommodation Lodge (BBH) 7 Romeo St, Stratford, 06 765 5444, info@mttaranakilodge.co.nz

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

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

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

SOUTH TARANAKI

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

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

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/

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

MT TARANAKI

WHANGANUI College House 42b Campbell Street, 021 852 100 42b.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.

Wanganui Information Centre 31 Taupo Quay, Whanganui, 06 349 0508, wanganui.com Department of Conservation Office 74 Ingestre St, 06 348 8475

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

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

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

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers (BBH) 1 Bunny St. 04 473 8482 hotelwaterloo.co.nz Lodge in the City (BBH) 152 Taranaki St. 04 385 8560 lodgeinthecity.co.nz 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 Nomads Capital 118/120 Wakefield St. 0508 666 237, nomadscapital.com

The Setup (BBH) Level 3/15, Dixon Street, Te Aro 04 802 4779 setupdixon.co.nz

YHA Wellington City 292 Wakefield St. 04 801 7280 yha.co.nz

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

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

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

Worldwide Backpackers (BBH) 291 The Terrace.

04 802 5590, worldwidenz.co.nz

Parliament House Free tours. Visit the Beehive, a uniquely designed centre of government with a distinct style of architecture, 04 471 9503

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

Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 MacDonald Crescent.

04 384 3041, backpackerswellington.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 (BBH) 161-163 Trafalger Square.

03 929 5553, aurorabackpackers.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,

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footprints.co.nz Tramways Hotel Nelson 66 Trafalgar St, 03 548 7049, tramwayshotel.co.nz Honey Suckle House (BBH) 125 Tasman St. 03 548 7576 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 (BBH) 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

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.

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

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

MOTUEKA 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 (BBH) 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

follow us on Aquapackers Anchorage Bay, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 0800 430 744, aquapackers.co.nz Golden Bay Barefoot Backpackers (BBH) 114 Commercial St. 03 525 7005, bare-foot.co.nz 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.

@tnt_downunder portage.co.nz Watson Way Backpackers (BBH) 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 (BBH) 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

The Innlet (BBH) 839 Pakawau Main Rd, 03 524 8040, theinnlet.co.nz

Tombstone Backpackers (BBH) 16 Gravesend Place. 03 573 7116, tombstonebp.co.nz

Somerset House (BBH) 10 Gibbs Rd. 03 524 8624, backpackerscollingwood.co.nz

Parklands Marina Holiday Park 10 Beach Rd, 03 573 6343, parktostay.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,

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.

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Endeavour Express Water Taxi Day-trips, round-trips and luggage transfers.

03 573 5456

HAVELOCK Nestled at the head of Pelorus Sound, Havelock is the best place from which to explore the Marlborough Sounds. For trampers and mountain bikers there’s the beautiful Nydia Track.

DOC Office Mahakipawa Rd, 03 574 2019 Explore Pelorus Sea Kayaks 03 576 5251

HAVELOCK STAY Bluemoon Lodge (BBH) 48 Main Rd. 03 574 2212, bluemoonhavelock.co.nz Linkwater Motel 1594 Queen Charlotte Dr, 03 574 2600 linkwatermotel.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 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 The Fairways at Ocean Ridge 1 Kersage Drive, 03 319 3055 YHA Kaikoura 270 Esplanade. 03 319 5931, yha.co.nz

KAIKOURA DO Kaikoura is famous for its large sperm whale population and picturesque mountain r Albatross Encounter Enjoy the sight of the magnificent albatross so close to the boat you can almost touch them. 96 Esplanade, 0800 733 365 albatrossencounter.co.nz Dolphin Encounter Swim with the acrobatic dusky dolphins or if you prefer, join the tour to view them from the boat. 96 Esplanade, 0800 733 365, dolphin.co.nz Fyffe House 62 Avoca St, Kaikoura’s oldest building, 03 319 5835.

Kaikoura Kayaks Paddle with the playful fur seals, dusky dolphins and marine life of Kaikoura. Seal kayaking, kayak school, hire, retail and kayak fishing.

19 Killarney St, 0800 452 456, kaikourakayaks.co.nz Seal Swim Kaikoura Swim with wild NZ Fur Seals. 58 West End, 0800 732 579, sealswimkaikoura.co.nz

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

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.

LEWIS PASS

Around the World Backpackers 314 Barbadoes Street. 03 365 4363 aroundtheworld.co.nz

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

At The Right Place (BBH) 85 Bealey Street.

03 366 1633 atrp.co.nz

BANKS PENINSULA

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 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 Vagabond Backpackers (BBH) 232 Worcester St. 03 379 9677 vagabondhostel.com

C’CHURCH DO

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

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

HANMER SPRINGS Hanmer Springs boasts the Hanmer 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.

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.

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

Lyttelton Information Centre 20 Oxford St, 03 328 9093

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.

Hanmer Backpackers 41 Conical Hill Rd. 03 315 7196, www.hanmerbackpackers.co.nz Jack in the Green (BBH) 3 Devon St. 03 315 5111, jackinthegreen.co.nz

Akaroa Information Centre 80 Rue Lavaud, 03 304 8600

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

Akaroa Shuttle Christchurch to Akaroa buses.

0800 500 929

Waipara Sleepers (BBH) 12 Glenmark Dr, Waipara.

03 314 6003, waiparasleepers.co.nz

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

Black Cat Cruises Wildlife Cruises on Lyttelton Harbour. Free shuttle bus from Christchurch, 03 328 9078. blackcat.co.nz

Onuku Farm Hostel (BBH) 03 304 7066, onuku.co.nz

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

Akaroa Museum 71 Rue Lavard, 03 304 1013

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

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

SUMNER

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

AKAROA DO

Dolphin Experience

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 The Sanctuary (BBH) 126 Main Road, Arther’s Pass National Park 03 942 2230, thesanctuary.co.nz Smylies Accommodation (YHA) 03 318 9258, yha.co.nz

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SOUTHISLAND METHVEN

LAKE TEKAPO

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.

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.

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

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

biking on the Matakitaki.

Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park 03 523 9809, bullergorge.co.nz The Lazy Cow Accommodation (BBH) 37 Waller St. 03 523 9451, thelazycownz.wordpress.com

REEFTON The centrepiece of the town is Victoria Forest Park, the largest forest park in New Zealand.

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

PAPAROA NP

Karamea Information Centre 106 Bridge St, 03 782 6652.

Rongo Backpackers 03 782 6667, rongobackpackers.com

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

With crazy terrain skewed by mining and earthquakes, one of the major attractions of Murchison is its proximity to Buller Gorge, a wonderfully scenic cluster of cliffs and trees. Activities include rafting on the Gowan River and mountain

MURCHISON

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.

Noahs Ark Backpackers (BBH) 16 Chapel St, 03 768 4868, noahs.co.nz

Bazil’s Hostel (VIP) – (BBH) 54/56 Russell St. 03 789 6410, bazils.co.nz

Visitor Information Punakaiki 03 731 1895 punakaiki.co.nz Barrytown Knife Making 2662 Coast Road, Barrytown, 03 731 1053, barrytownknifemaking.com

PAPAROA STAY Punakaiki Beach Hostel (BBH) 4 Webb St. 03 731 1852, punakaikibeachhostel.co.nz Te Nikau Retreat (BBH, YHA) 03 731 1111, tenikauretreat.co.nz Punakaiki Beach Camp Owen Street, 03 731 1894, punakaiki.co.nz

GREYMOUTH The west coast’s largest town is dominated by the Grey River.

Highlights include the Monteith’s

WHATAROA

GREYMOUTH STAY

The Old Nurses Home 104 Shiel St, 03 789 8881

WESTPORT

right, it can’t look as good as that in real life. Hokitika Gorge is one of those places. hokitika.org

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.

Global Village (BBH) 42-54 Cowper St, 03 768 7272, globalvillagebackpackers.co.nz

Visitor Information Westport 1 Brougham St, 03 789 6658

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

Reefton Old Bread Shop 155 Buller Rd, 03 732 8420, reeftonbackpackers.co.nz

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

Visitor Information Herbert and Mackay Sts, 03 768 5101

Duke Hostel (BBH) 27 Guiness St. 03 768 9470 duke.co.nz

WEST COAST

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.

brewery tour, as well as aquatic activities like rafting and canyoning.

Reefton Visitor Centre 67 Broadway, 03 732 8391

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.

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

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

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Tailor-Made-Tekapo Backpackers (BBH) 10/11 Aorangi Cres.

03 680 6700 tailor-made-backpackers.co.nz

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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 Hokitika Gorge Sometimes you see photos of a tourist spot and think yeah

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 At 18,000ft, they currently offer NZ’s highest skydive.

0800 458 677,

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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

FOX STAY Fox Glacier Inn (BBH) 03 751 0088 foxglacierinn.co.nz Ivory Towers (BBH) 03 751 0838, ivorytowerslodge.co.nz

FOX DO Fox Glacier Guiding Guided walks and heli-hikes on the FoxGlacier. 0800 111 600, foxguides.co.nz Glacier Country Kayaks 20 Cron St, 0800 423 262, glacierkayaks.com Skydive NZ: Fox Glacier 0800 751 0080, skydivingnz.co.nz

HAAST PASS Running through Mt Aspiring National Park, this stretch of road is among the most scenic that you’ll come across in New Zealand, showing off pristine lakes, magnificent forests and waterfalls.

DOC Centre Cnr SH 6 and Jackson Bay Rd, 03 750 0809 Wilderness Backpackers (BBH) Marks Rd, 03 750 029, 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 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 Holly’s Backpackers (BBH) 71 Upton St, 03 443 8187, hollys-backpacker.co.nz LHH (BBH) 1 Capell Ave, 03 443 1224, lakehawea.co.nz Mountain View Backpackers (BBH) 7 Russell St, 0800 112 201, wanakabackpackers.co.nz 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

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

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

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

Treble Cone Ski Field 03 443 7443, treblecone.co.nz

Flaming Kiwi Backpackers (BBH) 39 Robins Rd. 03 442 5494, flamingkiwi.co.nz Hippo Lodge (BBH)

4 Anderson Hts. 03 442 5785, hippolodge.co.nz

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

Milford Sound Flightseeing Scenic flights to Milford Sound, 0800 65 65 01, realjourneys.co.nz NZONE Skydive Skydive from 15,000ft. 35 Shotover St, 03 442 5867, nzone.biz NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt, nzski.com Queenstown Rafting Raft the Shotover, 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

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 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

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

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

Glenorchy Backpackers Retreat (VIP) Cnr Mull and Argyle Streets, Glenorchy, glenorchynz.com

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

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

Fat Tyre Adventure Mountain biking/heli biking, 0800 328 897, fat-tyre.co.nz Fergburger Best burgers in NZ. Shotover St, fergburger.com Flight Park Tandem Paragliding Operates from Coronet Peak

ARROWTOWN Poplar Lodge 4 Merioneth St, 03 442 1466, poplarlodge.co.nz Arrowtown Holiday Park 12 Centennial Ave, 03 442 1876

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SOUTHISLAND 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 (BBH) 48/50 Lakefront Dr, 03 249 7713, teanaubackpackers.co.za Steamers Beach Backpackers (BBH) 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,

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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! 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 divers. 0800 829254, tawakidive.co.nz

Invercargill I-site Visitors Centre 108 Gala St, 03 214 6243

TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Farm tours, barbecue lunches, horse treks and cycling.

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wildlife encounters. Farmstay options are available, 0800 304333, catlinscoaster.co.nz

STEWART ISLAND Stewart Island Flights Flights to Stewart Island, 03 218 9129, stewartislandflights.co.nz Bunkers Backpackers (BBH) 13 Argyle St, Halfmoon Bay, Stweart Island, 027 738 1796 bunkersbackpackers.co.nz

INVERCARG STAY

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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 (BBH) 36 Hosptial Road, 027 611 7932. goldbox.catering@gmail.com Happy Inn Backpackers (BBH) 11 Shakespeare St, 03 417 4161. happyinn@clear.net.nz

Southern Comfort (BBH) 30 Thompson St, 03 218 3838 bbh.co.nz

Fernlea Backpackers (VIP) Moana St, Kaka Point, 03 412 8834

Tuatara Backpacker Lodge 30 Dee St, 03 214 0956, tuataralodge.co.nz

The Split Level (BBH) 9 Waikawa Rd, Owaka, 03 415 8304, thesplitlevel.co.nz

SOUTH SCENIC The beautiful road west of Invercargill towards Fiordland is known as the Southern Scenic Route.

Surat Bay Lodge (BBH) Surat Bay Rd, New Haven, 03 415 8099, suratbay.co.nz

Pepper Tree Hostel 121 Grey St, Palmerston, 06 335 4054, peppertreehostel.co.nz

Penguin Paradise Holiday Lodge (BBH) 612 Waikawa-Niagara Rd, Waikawa Village South Catlins, 03 2468 552, catlins-surf.co.nz/736.html

Grandma’s Place 146 Grey St, Palmerston North, 06 358 6928, grandmas-place.co.nz

Thomas Catlins Lodge & Holiday Park, 8 Clark St, Owaka 03 415 8333, thomascatlins.co.nz

The Globe Backpackers (VIP) 144 Palmerston St, Riverton, 03 234 8527, globebackpackers@xtra.co.nz

Wright’s Mill Lodge 865 Tahakopa Valley Rd, 03 204 8424 catlinsaccommodation.co.nz

Harbison Backpackers 5 Harbison St, Otautau, 03 225 8715, michdale@xtra.co.nz Shooters Backpackers (BBH) 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.

Dept of Conservation Office Don St, 03 214 4589

Catlins Community Info Centre 3 Main Rd, Owaka, South Otago, 03 415 8371, catlins.org.nz

Catlins Coaster Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins with many stops to the main natural attractions and

Elm Lodge Wildlife Tours Two-day camping trips, 0800 356 563, elmwildlifetours.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) 74 Elm Row, 03 477 34728 pavlovapalace.co.nz Hogwartz (BBH)

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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 (BBH) 102 Barry Avenue, Cromwell, Fiordland 03 445 1260, pinotlodgenz.com

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

Larnach Castle Australasia’s only castle. The architecture is amazing and the intricate details (including a foyer ceiling that took nearly seven years to build) are breathtaking.

NZ Marine Studies Centre and Aquarium Run by the University of Otago, the Portobello Aquarium and Marine Biology Centre (near Quarantine Point) is a refuge for a diverse collection of fish and reptile life. 03 479 5826 Elm Wildlife Tours 0800 356 563, elmwildlifetours.co.nz

ALEXANDRA Alexandra and Roxburgh are the two main towns for fruit-picking work in the Central Otago region.

Grasshopper Rock One of the world’s southernmost vineyards, situated on the Earnscleugh Rd. grasshopperrock.co.nz

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

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

Visitor Information Centre Thames St, 03 434 1656 Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony View blue penguins at dusk.

Waterfront Rd, 03 433 1195, penguins.co.nz Ahuriri Backpackers (BBH) 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

MOERAKI Just 30km south of Oamaru lies a remarkable collection of eerie giant boulders.

MT COOK It’s the tallest mountain in Australasia, at 3,754m, and the drive there, past the stunning blue Lake Pukaki is almost as jaw-droppingly gorgeous as the destination itself.

Riverside Haven (BBH) 2328 SH1, Waianakarua, 03 439 5830, olivebranch.co.nz The Dubliner 105 Tiverton St, Palmerston, 03 465 8123

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BIGTRIP

Cultivating desert islands Fiji is made up of 332 islands. Sounds overwhelming but whether it’s diving, partying or hooking up, we’ve made it easy for you WORDS ANDREW WESTBROOK

Picture the scene. You’re swinging in a hammock, gazing across cobalt blue waters as you sip from a cocktail-filled coconut, all while a half naked beauty fans you with a giant palm. Sound anything like how you imagine Fiji to be? Well, you’re not too far wrong (although the half naked beauty might require some extra charm).

Comprising hundreds of tiny islands, most of which are surrounded by sparkling white sands, crystal clear waters and enough world class coral to have even the most indifferent of divers squeezing into wetsuits, Fiji does exactly what it says on the tin.

Whether you want relaxation, indigenous culture, hiking, partying, water sports, or all of the above, you’ll find them in ample supply on the South Pacific archipelago, with the added bonus that you get to enjoy them from the confines of your own desert island.

However, be warned, paradise comes at a price. If you simply jump on a flight to Nadi or Suva and plan to wing it as you go, you might be in for a shock. Many things in the country, notably accommodation, don’t come cheap. Indeed, hostel prices are regularly higher than you’ll find in Australia and certainly New Zealand. It’s a destination long on the radars of holidaying Aussies and Kiwis, not to mention the honeymoon crowd, meaning that all-inclusive resorts and package holidays are often the order of the day. But it’s not all bad news for your bank balance. Fiji is more geared up to backpackers than anywhere else in the South Pacific and the country can be done on a budget (albeit one slightly higher than you’re probably hoping for). The key is to put in some planning.

Sure, if you’re content to stick to the main islands Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, then you’ll find public transport is dirt cheap and beds not super expensive. However, let’s face it, you can’t travel somewhere like Fiji and not taste your own castaway experience by visiting the smaller islands, many of which are little more than palm-fringed dots in the ocean.

This is where the Yasawa and Mamanuca island chains come into their own. With their divine beaches, underwater treats and friendly welcoming faces, they’re the Fiji you expect in a nutshell – think snorkelling in the morning, beach

volleyball in the afternoons and kava ceremonies in the evening. You’ll be met on the sand by a troupe of beaming, singing villagers, fed to bursting point three times a day and left to do as little or as much as you’d like.

Better still is that many of these islands are aimed primarily at the budget crowd. Sure you can splash out on your own bure (a traditional thatched hut, usually just a few metres from the beach), but most resorts also offer much cheaper dorms, and some even let you camp.

And the cherry on top is that the Yasawas and Mamanucas are very easy to get to, making them ideal if you’re only visiting Fiji for a week or two. More likely than not, you’ll fly into Nadi (pronounced Nandy), on Viti Levu. From there, you can jump on a free transfer to Denarau Marina and catch the Yasawa Flyer. A swift, reliable catamaran than journeys up

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through the Mamanucas, Yasawas and back every day, you can simply pay for the Flyer on a per trip basis. Generally the cheaper option, however, is to buy a multi-day Bula Pass (awesomefiji. com), which covers the cost of all your island-hopping transfers for a set number of days. The passes start at NZ$248 for five days and become better value the longer you stay.

However, before you snap up your Bula Pass and think you’ll just sort out your hostel once you’ve arrived, think again. The resorts are by no means huge, meaning the best ones often get booked out in advance.

Then there’s the cost to consider. Paying the nightly rate isn’t cheap to start with, but it’s also vital to factor in that many resorts also make you pay for a compulsory food plan, for which you generally get three good meals a day, but for substantially more than a bowl of pasta cooked up in a hostel kitchen. Indeed, all things considered, it’s well worth signing up for that most dreaded of words in the backpacker dictionary – a package.

Hard to beat for these are Awesome Adventures (awesomefiji.com), whose packages cover your bed and Yasawa Flyer ticket, plus usually food. They start at NZ$481 per person, staying in dorms on two islands for two nights each.

Still remaining, of course, is the most important decision of all – which of the island resorts to dedicate your time to.

With more than 20 to choose between, and with information on them being fairly thin on the ground before you arrive, picking an island can feel like a tricky decision. Fear not, however, as TNT is here to help. Read on for our guide to the best of the best.

F

BEST DESERT ISLAND

Desert Island

SOUTH SEA ISLAND (MAMANUCAS) Time from Denarau: 30 minutes Tell me more: Get your shipwrecked fix with this uninhabited postcard-perfect speck in the South Pacific, which is home to the closest resort to Denarau Marina. Stroll around the palms, hammocks and glimmering sands in under 10 minutes before grabbing a snorkel or free kayak to explore the surrounding coral lagoon.

The damage: A dorm bed, with meals included, costs from $NZ183/night.

Also check out: Beachcomber Island and Bounty Island.

BEST AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCE

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NAQALIA LODGE (WAYALAILAI ISLAND, YASAWAS) Time from Denarau: 2 hours Tell me more: One of the Yasawas’ smallest backpacker resorts, which until recently was only for campers, Naqalia offers the opportunity to escape the crowds and feel a part of the family. You can also go on the brilliantly chaotic shark feeding snorkel trips or hike up the island’s peaks.

The damage: Beds cost NZ$85/night, including all meals naqalialodge-yasawa.com Also check out: Otto and Fanny’s Place.

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F O R BAC K PAC K E R S

Explore and experience the reefs, lagoons and islands of Fiji.

Independent travellers can freestyle it or go the whole way with packages, island escapes and island hopping passes in Fiji’s stunning Yasawa Islands. Packages range from 5 to 12 days and include island accommodation, transfers, meals and activities.

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.

YASAWA ISLANDS, FIJI

ISLAND HOPPING

Island Hopping passes from only $246* (5 days) All inclusive packages from $536* (5 days /4 nights) Island Stayputs from $175* (3 days /2 nights) * Terms & conditions apply

For info and bookings see your Travel Centre or contact us AAF5728

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BEST PARTIES BEACHCOMBER ISLAND (MAMANUCAS) Time from Denarau: 45 minutes Tell me more: While feedback on Beachcomber’s food and accommodation is, er, mixed, you won’t find anywhere in Fiji more dedicated to getting on the booze. The tiny island also has good snorkelling, water sports like jet skiing, plus a pool and spa.

The damage: Sleep in the 82-bed dorm (yes, 82) from NZ$27.88/night, plus extra money for food, towels and a fan (you’ll need it) Also check out: Mantaray Island Resort and Coral View Resort.

Beachcomber Island

BEST FOR SWIMMING WITH MANTA RAYS MANTARAY ISLAND RESORT (NANUYA BALAVU ISLAND, YASAWAS) Time from Denarau: 3 hours Tell me more: Nanuya benefits from having not just some of the best coral you could hope to see, right off the beach in front of the resort, but also plays hosts to giant manta rays, up to 6m wide, between May and October each year. Food fans are also unlikely to be disappointed.

The damage: Beds cost from NZ$29/night, while food is NZ$52/day.

Also check out: Barefoot Lodge.

BEST FOR ROMANCE

Manta Rays

NAVUTU STARS (YAQETA ISLAND, YASAWAS) Time from Denarau: 4 hours Tell me more: Need to make amends, whatever the cost?

Well, better reach for the Stars. This Italian-owned boutique resort, with just nine bures, has been hailed by the likes of Condé Nast and Vogue America, plus been voted one of the world’s sexiest resorts. ‘Nuff said.

The damage: No dorms here. Two person bures cost from NZ$465/night, while food will be another NZ$124/day each navutustarsfiji.com

BEST FOR BUDGET WAYALAILAI ECOHAVEN RESORT (WAYALAILAI ISLAND, YASAWAS) Time from Denarau: 2 hours Tell me more: This spacious resort at the southern tip of the Yasawas has plenty of facilities, another stunning beach, plus offers one of the region’s most dramatic hikes, up to the top of the island’s mountain, for spectacular views across to Kuata Island.

The damage: Beds cost from NZ$53/night, while camping costs just NZ$39pp including food bcdi.ca/wayalailai Also check out: Naqalia Lodge, Nabua Lodge and Bay of Plenty Lodge.

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LOOKING FOR your

next adventure?

Launched by TNT Magazine in 2014 TNT Tour Search is the easy to use tool that gives travellers the ability to search for tours in all the seven continents of the world.

The new advanced search functionality allows travellers to search by most means necessary: • If you know the city you want to visit then we’ll show you the best deals around.

• If you fancy visiting a country but want to know what’s on offer we can show you the various places to visit.

• You may choose the continent and leave the rest to us. We will serve you up with all the top tours available.

• If you’re on a budget or have an amount in mind you can tailor your search based on the value.

• You may just know how long you want to go away for, so why not specify the duration.

• It may be that you have an activity in mind.

If so, we can be specific with this too.

Or if you really know what you want, you can use a combination of all the above and we will show you tours that meet your exact needs.

Whether it’s a weekend away in Europe or a 90 day tour around the world, TNT Tour Search is here to show travellers what is available from the leading operators at the best prices. With full booking functionality and customised search facilities travellers can tailor their searches from the thousands of tours available from day one of launch.

This new version of TNT Tour Search is a result of user feedback and operator input and the tool will be constantly updated and improved to ensure travellers are able to find exactly what they want, when they want and a price they can afford.

Log on to www.tnttoursearch.com today and find the right tours for you!

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OZCAREERS

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Get cookin’ good lookin’ Catering at large parties or doing the rounds at restaurants can bring in the big bucks this summer

If you’re looking to make some extra money and you love fine wines and dining – or just a good party – then jobs in catering and hospitality may be just the ticket. Positions include bartending, waiter work and chef work and the good news is that hours are pretty flexible so they can fit around your holiday plans. The take-homes aren’t bad either. Ten trays of sausage rolls anyone? Leftover wine? At the end of a shift, it could all be yours.

The Hilton Group seem to be recruiting quite a bit at the moment and let’s face it a reference from them won’t 88

do you any harm hospitalityonline.com.

Another hospitality recruiter that is worth a gander is thestar.com.au, which fills positions for large-scale events as well as finding staff for its bars, casino and restaurants. seek.com.au focuses on openings in hospitality – so for working more regular hours in smaller food and drink establishments such as restaurants, pubs and bars.

Bartenders This is for anyone sociable and outgoing who enjoys their grog and knows what

a daiquiri should taste like. Not that we condone drinking on the job...

Catering: Bar jobs in this area usually revolve around big events such as weddings, award ceremonies and music festivals. The hours are flexible as a result so you can work as much or as little as you want each month – but actual shifts can be long. You don’t need years of experience but if you go through a catering recruiter you will need to do a day or so of training.

Help with set-up and take-down at events and you’ll get paid more. If you’ve gone for bartending at a festival,

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WANT A JOB? NEED A JOB?

GET A JOB.

FINDING A JOB MADE EASY Whether you need a job to fund your travels or are looking for a career, we’ve created a place where employers know they can find someone just like you. With easy registration and CV uploading, access hundreds of employers and thousands of vacancies within seconds.

Jump online now and register with us, see how easy it can be.

JOBS

JOBS

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OZCAREERS you’ll be paid in the form of a ticket, which is a bargain for music lovers.

Hospitality: These are more specialised on-site positions in bars and pubs so hours will be regular. If it’s a cocktail bar you may need to have done a mixology course. Pint pulling at pubs however won’t necessarily require experience, unless you’re after a manager position. Take a look on the barexchange.com for up-to-date vacancies.

Waiters From waiting tables at top-notch restaurants to silver service at big events, these jobs are accessible to most and can be good fun as well. Summer is also prime-time as celebrations abound, so get looking now.

Catering: Weddings and summer parties will make up the bulk of your work here and if you get in with a fancy catering company, you may even get to hang with some celebs.

Recruiters such as flavourscatering.com.au will train you up so you don’t need prior experience. If your shift lasts the whole hog of an event you may also have to help with set-up and take down.

Hospitality: Waiter positions in restaurants or cafes require a bit more experience, but the work is more stable. Jobs can range from taking orders behind a bar to waiting tables and having advanced knowledge of the specials and the wine.

And don’t forget, you have to be a class act at balancing. Pay might not be great, but if you throw in tips, you can bring in a pretty good haul each week, restaurantjobs.com.au has a good a range of jobs at restaurants in the UK.

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people at big events and parties so it’s much more of a factory operation, but there’s lots to be learned from these positions.

Most of the job openings are in the form of chef’s assistants who help prep the food. On the upside however you can take jobs as and when you please if you go with a caterer. Check sites freshcatering.com.au and the simplyhired.com.au for jobs.

Hospitality: Becoming a chef at a restaurant is hard and cooks spend years interning for the top people in the industry.

However, if you have any experience as a trainee chef or you have an NVQ professional chef’s certificate, you’ll be well on your way. If you want to work in a restaurant kitchen you’ll have to look for a job in the more traditional way – by grazing openings on general sites such as gumtree.com. au – rather than joining a catering company. If you’re up to scratch, .placedrecruitment.com.au is a leading recruiter for top Aussie restaurants.

A couple of years ago on a wild night out I got talking to some guy who worked in McDonalds in Kings Cross, Sydney. He claimed to make enough money to live in an apartment share in Potts Point, pay bills, buy new clothes every week and go out Friday, Saturday and Sunday night.

Not a bad idea hey!

Chefs If working as a chef has been something you’ve always dreamed of, catering may be a good way to gain experience; if you already have some skills in the kitchen then roll-up your sleeves and get stuck into a more permanent position at a restaurant.

Catering: Caterers cook for large amounts of 90

To look for jobs in Australia, head to tntdownunder.com/jobs

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