May 2013 Issue 96 tntdownunder.com
! WIN ee day
thr mighty campervan rental
venturing out Zipping around action-packed Rotorua
green day The country’s best eco tours
village people Trekking to a remote Fiji village
s s e n i s u b w o sn
ueenstow n Q f o l a it p a re c the adventu in m e th ly ip ls and mult + what’s on the jezabels We get chil
music travel photos
Cover_NZ96_AH.indd 1
22/4/13 4:41:10 PM
Untitled-1 1
13/02/13 8:47 AM
ALEX HARMON EDITOR editor@tntdownunder.com
EDITOR’S LETTER Here at TNT we try to keep our carbon footprint down to the waifness of a Russian ballerina; whether that be sharing showers with others, recycling goon bags, or encouraging you to read our Emag (hint, hint). Same goes for travel, which is why we’ve listed our top eco-tours around the country (pg10). We also get loose in wild Queenstown and run around the culture capital of Rotorua. Happy travels!
THIS WEEK Nz Diary
4
Gigs
6
Pubs
8
hot shots
22
travel
24
competition
26
listings transport
45
listings north island
47
listings south island
56
listings travelling on
64
Trivia
66
10
Features Green Machine
10
We sample some of NZ’s best eco-tours, mother nature will thank you
Cardigan Jezabel
16
38
We follow the Sydney-based band around on their European adventures
screamtown
28
NZ’s adrenalin capital goes off when the snow starts to fall
CUltural healing
34
We take in Rotorua in all of its volcanic, thermal splendour
Where’s the remote
38
We journey to a remote village in Fiji and experience its unique beauty
trivial pursuits
66
Best be boning up on your shaky isles intuition because we’ve got a general Kiwi quiz coming at you!
28
34 tntdownunder.com
96_Contents.indd 3
3
24/4/13 9:17:11 PM
nzDIARY NZDIARY
follow followususonon
@tnt_downunder @tnt_downunder
Editorial Editor Alex Harmon Staff writer Hugh Radojev Contributors Benedict Cooper, Alasdair Morton, Jahn Vannisselroy Intern Rosemarie Marino, Rory Platt, Adele Rogers
Design and production Design and production manager Lisa Ferron Sales Account manager Justin Steinlauf Marketing and events executive Georgina Pengelly marketing & events Business development manager Tom Wheeler accounts Financial controller Trish Bailey
tnt MULTIMEDIA LTD CEO Kevin Ellis Chairman Ken Hurst Publisher TNT Multimedia Limited Printed by Rural Press Pictures Getty Images | Thinkstock | TNT Images | Tourism New Zealand | Tourism Fiji cover Getty Images TNT Magazine , 126 Abercrombie Street, Chippendale, Sydney, NSW, 2008, Australia tntdownunder.com General enquiries Phone +61 2 8332 7500 Fax +61 2 9690 1314 Email enquiries@tntdownunder.com sales enquiries Phone +61 2 8332 7511 Email tom@tntdownunder.com Where to get TNT
See tntdownunder.com/magazine-location.html for pick-up points
the main event NZ international Comedy Festival Nationwide, new zealand
Tis the season to laugh across Australasia, with the International Comedy Festival heading to New Zealand hot off the heels of its run in Melbourne and Sydney. Some of the best comedic talent from home and abroad will be taking to the stage in various venues across Auckland, Wellington and right across New Zealand. Check out festival favs like Danny Bhoy, Jimeoin (pictured) and American cult hero Tom Green. TBA
April 26 – May 19 Across NZ comedyfestival.co.nz
Bluff Oyster and Food Fest
Thundercat Racing
5th Auckland Triennial
For possibly the best seafood you’ve ever tasted, you can’t go past this festival on the southernmost tip of the South Island. Succulent oysters are the star, but there is plenty of great NZ wine to suit whatever yummy food tickles your tastebuds.
”Let’s go Thundercats” – don’t be confused with cartoon characters, this action packed race day will have both young and old out on the beach. Watch the wave jumping and high speed racing of these inflatable boats the Kiwi way.
One of Auckland’s premier arts and entertainment festivals, occurring once every three years. The theme this time around is ‘If you lived here...’ and some of Auckland’s premier artists have taken up the challenge. Ought to be a real treat!
May 25 Bluff, near Invercargil bluffoysterfest.co.nz
May 12 Orewa, Auckland thundercatracing.co.nz
May 10- August 11 Auckland aucklandtriennial.com
$18
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.
4
Free
TBA
tntdownunder.com
96_Events.indd 4
24/4/13 9:18:42 PM
01_NZ96p3-27upfront.indd 5
24/04/13 9:33 PM
gigLISTINGS Erin Free Our Place, New Plymouth facebook.com/erinsphere
DON’T MISS!
@tnt_downunder
follow us on
DON’T MISS!
saturday 11 The Upbeats TBA 10 Bar, Dunedin theupbeats.co.nz
sunday 12 Cachaca Duo $20 Highwic, Auckland cachacaduo.co.nz
Bobby Womack The Civic, Auckland. May 18. From $72.50 The godfather of soul has been enjoying a real renaissance of late and he’s bringing his supreme vocal talents to Auckland! Auckland
the-edge.co.nz
Wednesday 1 The Buzzcocks $60 The Mayfair, New Plymouth ticketmaster.co.nz
Thursday 2 French for Rabbits $5 Mighty Mighty, Wellington mightymighty.co.nz
Friday 3 Husk $5 The Golden Dawn, Auckland goldendawn.co.nz
saturday 4 1814 $20 Opononi Hotel, Hokianga 1814.co.nz
sunday 5
undertheradar.co.nz
monday 6 The Boundary Riders $15 Donovan’s, Franz Josef donovans.co.nz
tuesday 7 Sonic Delusion Free Bar Medusa, Wellington sonicdelusion.com
wednesday 8 The Tattletale Saints From $10 The Cabana, Napier tattletalesaints.com
thursday 9 Nadia Reed Free Darkroom, Christchurch nadiareid.com
Matt Langley $15 Kings Arms, Auckland
Friday 10
BOOK NOW!
monday 13 Samsom Nacey Haines $15 Kenneth Myers Centre, Auckland creative.auckland.ac.nz
tuesday 14 Cutting Teeth Free Takapuna, Auckland takapuna.co.nz
wednesday 15 New Natives $10 Ding Dong Lounge, Auckland facebook.com/dingdongloungenz
thursday 16 Nick Corbett Free Degree, Auckland degree.co.nz
friday 17 1814 $20 Masterton Town Hall, Masterton 1814.co.nz
saturday 18 Bobby Womack From $72.50 The Civic, Auckland the-edge.co.nz
Winter Festival Queenstown. June 21 – 30.TBA Music, arts, culture and, of course, lots of adrenalin... What more would you expect from NZ’s coolest 10 days all year! Queensland
winterfestival.co.nz
Bloodnut From $15 Ding Dong Lounge, Auckland facebook.com/dingdongloungenz
thursday 23 Jeremy Pickford Free Degree, Auckland degree.co.nz
monday 27 Big Band Free Meow, Wellington meow.co.nz
tuesday 28
friday 24 Rocky Rhodes Free Hamilton Workingmen’s Club hwmc.co.nz
saturday 25 John Rowles $30 Motueka RSA, Motueka motuekarsa.sponsorit.co.nz
Jazzgroove Mothership $68 Pt Chevalier RSA, Auckland plus1.co.nz
wednesday 29 Nick Granville $32 Regent on Broadway, Palmerston North regent.co.nz
thursday 30 Crowned $10 Napier Theatre premier.ticketek.co.nz
sunday 26 Dave Dobbins $35 King Street Live, Wairarapa nztix.co.nz
Friday 31 New Way Home $10 Axces Bar, Hamilton axcesbar.co.nz
BOOK NOW!
sunday 19 Ali Harper $40 Court Theatre, Christchurch courttheatre.org.nz
monday 20 Tenacious D $95.10 Auckland Town Hall the-edge.co.nz
tuesday 21 Ohakune Mardi Gras The Junction, Ohakune. June 29. Free Live music and fireworks, what more can a person want from a Mardi Gras? Get to the North Island’s premier apres ski site and enjoy
Ohakune
6
newzealand.com
Kids for Kids From $18 Regent on Broadway, Palmerston North regent.co.nz
wednesday 22
Rhythm and Vines Music Festival Gisborne. December 31– Jan 2. TBA A three day festival to help bring in the New Year with 30,000 screaming fans in beautiful Gisborne. Gisborne
rhythmandvines.co.nz
tntdownunder.com
96_Gigs_pubs.indd 6
24/4/13 9:31:08 PM
M
Y
Y
96_Gigs_pubs.indd 7
24/4/13 9:32:45 PM
PUBLISTINGS aucklandpubs FU Bar 174 Queen Street, Auckland fu.co.nz Reef Bar 71 Tamaki Drive, Mission Bay reefbar.co.nz Margaritas Bar 137 Quay Street, Princes Wharf margaritas.co.nz The Paddington 117 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell thepaddington.co.nz Masonic Tavern 29 King Edward Parade, Devonport masonictavern.co.nz Cock & Bull 401 Khyber Pass Road, Newmarket cockandbull.co.nz
The Patriot Devonport 14 Victoria Road, Devonport thepatriot.co.nz
The Whiskey 210 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby whiskeybars.com
The Kentish Hotel Level 1/5 Queen Street, Waiuku kentishhotel.co.nz/
Rakino’s Level 1/35 High Street, Auckland rakinos.com
Tabac Bar 6 Mills Lane See Map 11 Mills Lane, Auckland tabac.co.nz
The Clare Inn 278 Dominion Road, Mt Eden theclareinn.com
The Bluestone Room 9-11 Durham Lane, Auckland thebluestoneroom.co.nz Corner Store 25 Mount Eden Road, Eden Terrace thecornerstore.co.nz The Kingslander 470 New North Road, Kingsland thekingslander.co.nz De Fontein 75-79 Tamaki Dr, Mission Bay defontein.co.nz
The Jolly Roger Pub Unit 22, Ranger Building 190 Jack The Occidental Lachlan Drive Pine Harbour 6/8 Vulcan Lane, Auckland thejollyrogerpub.co.nz occidentalbar.co.nz Degree Gastro Bar Wine Loft 204 Quay Street, Auckland 67 Shortland Street, Auckland degree.co.nz wineloft.co.nz Spy Bar Kings Arms Tavern Viaduct Quay 204 Quay Street, 59 France Street South, Newton Auckland kingsarms.co.nz spybar.co.nz The Library Bar 1 Pakenham Street East, The Viaduct, Auckland thelibrarybar.co.nz
follow us on
Celsius 125 Ormiston Road, Botany Junction celsiusbar.co.nz
hashigozake.co.nz Brewery Bar & Restaurant 4 Taranaki Street, Wellington thebrewerybar.co.nz The Big Kumara 60 Dixon Street, Te Aro bigkumara.com
q’town pubs
Bellini Bar Hilton Hotel, Princes Wharf 147 Quay Street, Auckland bellini.co.nz
Altitude Bar & Café 49 Shotover Street altitudebar.co.nz
Villager 606 Remuera Road, Remuera villager.co.nz
Skybar 26 Camp Street skybar.co.nz
Lolabar 212 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, lolabar.co.nz
Brazz On The Green 1 Athol Street brazz.co.nz
wellingtonpubs Malthouse 39 Abel Smith Street, Te Aro themalthouse.co.nz Shed 5 Restaurant & Bar 48 Courtenay Place, Te Aro shed5.co.nz The Garden Club 160 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne thegardenclub.co.nz The Establishment 13 Dixon Street, Te Aro, Wellington mbbk.co.nz The Empire Hotel 25-29 Taranaki Street, Te Aro theempire.co.nz San Francisco Bathhouse 57 Swan Street Richmond sfbh.co.nz
Winnies The Mall 7 Ballarat Street winnies.co.nz The World Bar Restaurant & Nightclub 27 Shotover St theworldbar.co.nz Monty’s Bar and Restaurant 12 Church Street montysbar.co.nz
Darkroom 336 St Asaph Street darkroombar.co.nz Dux Live 363 Lincoln Road, Christchurch duxlive.co.nz Naval Point Club Erskine Point Charlotte Jane Quay navalpoint.co.nz Phoenix Bar 15 Main North Road, Papanui facebook.com/facebook Pierside Cafe and Bar 3 Brighton Mall, New Brighton pierside.co.nz Lyme Bar 817 Colombo Street ymebar.co.nz The Brewery 3 Garlands Road, Woolston thetwistedhop.co.nz Alvarados 77 Stevens Street alvarados.co.nz CBD Bar 208 Madras Street, cbdbar.co.nz
rotorua pubs
Surreal 7 Rees Street surrealbar.co.nz
Lava Bar 1286 Arawa Street stayatbase.com
Pog Mahones Irish Bar 14 Rees Street pogmahones.co.nz
The Grumpy Mole Saloon 1232 Arawa Street grumpymole.com
Minus 5 88 Beach Street minus5icebar.com
BREW - Craft Beer Pub 1103 Tutanekai Street brewpub.co.nz
The Blue Door 18 Buchingham Street, Arrowtown thebluedoor.com.au
Latitude 37 Bar 181-183 Maunganui Road 37.co.nz
Slainte Irish Bar 48A Shotover Street Electric Avenue yha.co.nz 132 Courtenay Place, Te Aro electricavenue.co.nz Hashigo Zake 25 Taranaki Street, Te Aro
@tnt_downunder
The Buddha Lounge 61B The Strand, Tauranga baysalsa.co.nz
christchurchpubs
Scenic Cellars 37 Tuwharetoa Street, Taupo sceniccellars.co.nz
Elevate 2 Colombo St, Cashmere elevatebar.co.nz
Pig & Whistle 1182 Tutanekai Street pigandwhistle.co.nz
HAPPY HOUR
Sunday School
The Bluestone Room. Auckland. Sunday Nights. With free entry, happy hour prices and ‘naughty entertainment’ promised, it’s fair to say that this Sunday School will be for the wicked at heart. 9–11 Durham Lne
8
thebluestoneroom.co.nzz
tntdownunder.com
96_Gigs_pubs.indd 8
29/4/13 3:12:03 PM
BASE_96.indd 1
29/04/13 3:17 PM
Keeping these guys happy and healthy
Easy being green We want you to experience some of the best tours without feeling guilty, so we’ve picked out the best eco-friendly adventures in NZ Words rosemarie marino + adele rogers
If climate scientists, elected members of the Greens party and anyone who ever owned a hacky sack during University are to be believed, we humans are all bastards! Our insatiable lust for energy, food and fuel is cooking the planet, destroying the ozone and extinguishing all manner of animal species left, right and centre. These are indisputable facts, but some people refuse to believe them. These nay-sayers are the sorts of people who would rather listen to that 10
googley-eyed, beak nosed, cretinous twat Lord Monckton crap on about “natural heating cycles” then admit that they are a part of the problem, not the solution. These people are not many, but they walk among us. Their folly might not be obvious to them now, but one day it will be. But hopefully not to our costs. But just as surely as our every day habits are negatively affecting the environment, so too is the way in which we holiday and travel. That’s
where the eco-adventure tour has started to come in. We’ve made a selection eco-friendly adventures that fully deliver on all the things you’d expect of a holiday without damaging the beautiful, and at times, fragile ecosystems that they rely on for their businesses. Ecosystems that you and I so often take advantage of. Whether you’re looking for thrills and adventure or rest and relaxation we have a little bit of everything, and you can rest easy – they’re all green!
tntdownunder.com
LISTING_NZ96 AH.indd 10
23/4/13 11:18:23 PM
Waimangu Volcanic Valley Wandering through a valley of hot springs and bubbling mud baths is something reminiscent of ‘middle earth’, and that’s what you will find at this spectacular geothermal destination. Only 20 minutes south of New Zealand’s thermal centre, Rotorua, visitors can walk through one of the world’s youngest eco-systems to marvel craters, hot lakes, unusual thermal plants and wildlife. Explore the magnificent valley with a self-guided walk or join one of the guided eco tours. Waimangu Volcanic Valley was created as a direct result of the Tarawera volcanic eruption in 1886, and is the only geo-thermal system in the world that can be pinpointed to an exact time and event. This remarkable ‘must-see’ attraction has won multiple eco-tourism awards for conservation and sustainability. AR Cost: $34.50. Where: 20 mins south of Rotorua waimangu.co.nz
Elm Wildlife Tours Join the enthusiastic and expert guides on the wildlife experience of a lifetime. This multi award winning tour offers absolutely unrivalled sustainable nature and wildlife experiences, visiting some of the most spectacular wildlife spots in New Zealand. The family owned and operated business, ranked #1 on Trip Advisor, pride themself on their conversation and sustainable nature and wildlife experiences. Visitors can choose from several tours of Otago Peninsula and the southeast Coast, with the promise of close encounters with nature in areas inaccessible to others. Tours are timed to coincide with the daily peak of animal activity; blue penguins, New Zealand fur seals, sea lions and rare yellow-eyed penguins are just a few. Elm Wildlife Tours are specifically planned to combine tourism and conservation without creating negative environmental impact. AR Cost: $99. Where: Dunedin elmwildlifetours.co.nz
Green Glow Eco-Adventures A kilometre long cave stretch with seven entrances awaits you on the west side of Waitomo caves. There is something for people of all experience levels at Green Glow, including caving, abseiling, rock climbing and photography. Create your own unique tour consisting of your guide and whoever you bring with you! The maximum size is six people, and you can set your own pace. One of the many highlights of exploring the Waitomo caves is getting to stop and check out the glowworms when you turn out your light! This is a “dry” adventure, meaning you wear comfortable clothes and generally stay out of the water, as opposed to Black Water Rafting when you wear a wetsuit and sit in a tube up to your waist in cold water! RM Cost: from $190. Where: Waitomo greenglow.co.nz
tntdownunder.com
LISTING_NZ96 AH.indd 11
11
23/4/13 11:18:51 PM
Roturua Canopy Tours You will give Tarzan a run for his money zipping through this magical, untouched New Zealand forest. Roturua Canopy Tours is the only native forest zip-line canopy tour in New Zealand. The guided three-hour adventure will see you travelling a 1.2 kilometre network of zip-lines, swing-bridges and treetop platforms, 40 metres above the forest floor. The thrill of flying through breathtaking, peaceful, forested valleys, is unlike any other. The magnificent forest is also home to giant ancient trees and unique bird species. Roturua Canopy Tours is built on a reserve owned by the New Zealand Department of Conservation. Their inspirational conservation project aims to return the forest to a complete prehuman state for all New Zealanders and international visitors to enjoy. Since they started their conservation project and rat trapping in August 2012, a rare bird, the North Island Robin, has returned and visitors to the tour have been able to hear it. AR Cost: $129. Where: Rotorua canopytours.co.nz
Eco-rafting For the ultimate extreme adventure, which won’t have a negative impact on the environment, you can’t go past ecorafting. These white water rafting adventure specialists offer unique experiences into the wilderness of New Zealand. The passionate team have chosen the West Coast for its wild beauty and number and quality of rivers that are available. Visitors can try everything from peaceful, gentle scenic floats, to the most full-on class-five white water rafting. There are full and half day tours available, all of which cover comprehensive water and rafting safety training. Eco-rafting follow strict environmental guidelines and work closely with the Department of Conversation to ensure the rivers are kept in pristine condition. They are proud to say, “we can drink the water from every river that we raft and we want it to stay that way”. AR Cost: $90. Where: West Coast NZ ecorafting.co.nz
Wilson’s Abel Tasman- Sea kayaking Want to explore the beauty of a protected marine reserve? Wilson’s Abel Tasman Sea Kayaking tours can help. These guys offer a range of packages, from three hours to five days. You have the freedom to create custom itineraries, add walking tours and overnight stays by the water. The Wilson family are one of few to hold a Tonga Island Marine Mammal Watching Permit, so get ready to see some local animals! The team at Wilson’s are also so committed to preservation of the environment that they were the first to be awarded the Qualmark Enviro Gold. To receive this they had to ensure the company demonstrated effectiveness in energy efficiency, waste management and water conservation, also the inclusion of social and environmental impacts on local communities. RM Cost: from $90. Where: Abel Tasman National Park abeltasman.co.nz
12
tntdownunder.com
LISTING_NZ96 AH.indd 12
23/4/13 11:19:17 PM
Nomad Safaris With 20 years experience, Nomad Safaris know exactly how to look after you. There are endless small group, tailored tour options to choose from. These include the exploration of historic gold mining areas and even a visit to filming locations from The Lord of the Rings movies! Take an invigorating 4WD adventure to Skippers Canyon, or perhaps a quad bike trail to Queenstown Hill, where you will get to experience 360 degree views. There are also options that include jet boat riding, and wilderness guided walks. For those of you who want even more of a personalised memory, there are private bookings available too. The team are Green Globe certified and do their bit by using natural cleaning materials and taking initiative to ensure that only clean water and natural products are put down the drains through waste water diversion. RM Cost: varies depending on tour. Where: 20 mins south of Rotorua nomadsafaris.co.nz
Photos: Tourism NZ, Wilsons Abel Tasman National Park, Waitomo Caves, Elm Wildlife Tours, Franz Josef Glaciers, Nomads Safaris, Wilson’s Abe Tasman Eco-Kayaking, Rotorua Canopy Tours.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides The Franz Josef Glacier Guides are caring, informative and very committed to keeping the region you explore preserved. Their constant recycling of old equipment, visitor’s rubbish, compost and use of biodegradable cleaning products have gotten them a Silver Enviro Award Rating through Qualmark NZ. Ever seen Blue Ice? A major highlight of these glacier trips is the chance to witness this rarity. Try an Ice Explorer tour, which after a small heli-hop, takes you through a maze of ice leading to the incredible Hot Glacier Pools. There are also options for a glacier heli-hike, valley walk or the adrenalin filled heli-ice climb! To top it off, they throw in a goody bag and DVD on some tours, so you can cherish the memories for years to come. Full tuition and safety equipment is provided, so you can relax as you take in this natural wonder. RM Cost: $69 Where: Franz Josef, 5 hours from Queenstown franzjosefglacier.com
Hiking New Zealand Eco Tours Hiking New Zealand are a small team of active hikers and bikers offering adventures up to 27 days long! The best part? They operate throughout the whole of New Zealand. From river canoes to skiing, prepare to see volcanoes, rivers, rainforests, canyons and a huge variety of flora and fauna. These eco-tours are approved by the Department of Conservation, proving they have passed all necessary environmental and safety standards that are set to keep the area preserved. The concession fees also go towards the management of natural and historic resources. Hiking NZ also run a great program called ‘Trees For Trampers’ where they will plant a tree on your behalf so everyone can do their bit for the environment, regardless of how busy you are! This encourages bird life and new plants to grow so future generations can see what you do. RM Cost: Prices vary. Where: All around NZ hikingnewzealand.com
tntdownunder.com
LISTING_NZ96 AH.indd 13
13
29/4/13 2:31:43 PM
WIN
Are you spotted in the circle?
Email us at tom@ tntdownunder.com with ‘Spotted’ in the subject line, email must include a photo of yourself! Boom - You’ve won yourself a double pass to any Big Night Out! Like us on facebook/ tntdownunder for more party pics from the night!
Big Night out in Auckland
14
tntdownunder.com
SPOTTED_NZ96.indd 14
24/04/13 10:33 PM
01_NZ96p3-27upfront.indd 15
24/04/13 9:35 PM
Diverse: gothic spires to goth-pop in Barcelona
16
Earnest: singer Hayley Mary in the moment; (above) Barcelona at night
tntdownunder.com
720_Focus.indd 16
24/4/13 10:15:02 PM
like us on
musicFOCUS
facebook/tntdownunder
On tour with The Jezabels Ever wondered what it would be like to hit the road with one of your favourite bands? We live the dream and do just that Words benedict cooper
The Jezabels don’t know it, but I’ve travelled with them before. Their debut album, Prisoner, and earlier EPs were the soundtrack to my summer, the haunting, gothic poprock thundering through my headphones on practically every journey I took. I was completely hooked. So when the chance came to join them on the last leg of their world tour last year, travelling through Portugal and Spain’s coolest cities and watching The Jezabels perform in Europe’s top music venues to a new, rock ‘n’ roll-hungry crowd each night – well, I couldn’t have packed my bags much quicker. The Aussie four-piece have been on quite a journey of their own since they banded together at Sydney University in 2007. They’ve been developing the unique sound they describe as “intensindie” ever since, and this year have toured the world, a trip that culminates in these European dates, supporting the legendary Skunk Anansie. I took them with me on my journeys. Here’s what happened when they took me on theirs.
“
Whatever you do, do NOT shit on the bus
”
there’s bottes of champagne waiting for the band: a ‘Welcome to the tour’ present from the headliners, Skunk Anansie. Now that, I think to myself, is rock ‘n’ roll.
Day 2: Porto Waking up on a tour bus with a band you love sleeping
Day 1: Lisbon I’ll admit it, I have a case of butterflies as I navigate my way through the winding streets of Lisbon, to the Coliseu dos Recreios – to meet The Jezabels for the first time. This is a very feisty city: as I hurry through the lively streets I notice drug dealers loitering among the stunning, 16th-century architecture, offering their wares to any passer-by. I’m eager to meet the band, though, so rather than exploring further, I wander past and soon find myself backstage. I’m walking through deserted corridors looking for the dressing rooms when I bump into the band’s keyboardist, Heather Shannon, and guitarist, Sam Lockwood, peering expectantly into the majestic, historic auditorium of the Coliseu – a stage they’re due to storm a few hours later. About an hour later, I find myself just a few feet away from the band as they launch into their first song – they’re captivating to watch. Out there in the auditorium the crowd is going wild – everybody is loving it. I pinch myself to check this isn’t a dream. When we all pile backstage after a phenomenal set,
Thumbs up: champagne from band Skunk Anansie tntdownunder.com
720_Focus.indd 17
17
24/4/13 10:15:21 PM
peacefully around you is one of the stranger ways to start a day, but even 24 hours in, I’m already in the swing of things, unfazed by Skunk Anansie’s lead singer Skin walking by with a cup of green tea. I’ve seen The Jezabels’ drummer Nik Kaloper demonstrate his uncanny ability to catch snacks in his mouth countless times. And I’ve been told in no uncertain terms, “do NOT shit on the bus”. I spend some time chatting to lead singer Hayley Mary in between soundchecks and ask her how she feels about all the travelling. “It’s a bit of a non-reality, but it’s the fans that keep us grounded” she says. “In some ways you get more in touch with the world, but in others you’re less in touch, because you don’t have a home and it’s having a home that gives you your sense of culture. Sometimes I’ve had a strange feeling, like the opposite of homesick, where you have no idea where you are or what you’re doing, but it’s very exciting – the fluidity of it.” We arrive in Porto, an industrial-looking city that at first glance seems full of concrete and unromantic architecture. But the part of town around the grand old Coliseu do Porto, where The Jezabels have a gig later that night, turns out to have real character. It’s another energetic set, and though supporting Skunk Anansie means impressing a new breed of fans, this crowd is definitely won over.
Day 3: Madrid Parts of Madrid, with its winding back alleys and steep cobbled streets, makes me feel as though I’m in a small hill town, as I wander about on another lethargic afternoon – the band are almost always too tired to see the cities themselves. As Sam tells me: “We’ve been to Paris three times and never seen the Eiffel Tower.” Turns out to be a good job they’ve saved their energy, as La Riviera is a much more intimate venue than they’ve played so far. After the show there’s a huge buzz as the band pose for pictures and shake hands. A couple of die-hard Jezabels fans – Tane and Anneka – take us out to a trendy local watering hole, Bar Mostro, and they are clearly on cloud nine to be out with their favourite band. We carry on the party back on the bus, and I eventually crawl into my bunk in the early hours of the morning full of the roadie’s whisky and lulled by the gentle hum of the vehicle.
Day 4: Barcelona Barcelona is known for having a raucous music scene, and The Jezabels are playing the city’s famous Razzmatazz venue, which is a very big deal – The Stone Roses and Blur have played here in the past. I’m feeling the burn from last night, but that melts away as the band rocks the stage again. All it takes is a few notes from Heather’s keyboard at the beginning of Hurt Me and the shiver down my spine gets the adrenaline going again. I savour the song, knowing it’s the last time I’ll hear Nik’s powerful drumming, Heather’s mesmerising notes, Hayley’s soaring vocals and Sam’s unmistakable chords in quite this way again. Together they fill Razzmatazz with a dark, formidable charisma, sealing the tour as having been a resounding success. Later, Hayley says: “We’re somewhere in between innocence and success now, a transition phase. I think we’ll look back at these days as being some of our best.” ❚ 18
The Greatest Tours in Rock ‘n’ roll’s History
U2’s 360˚ Tour was a world beater Four days in Europe is just a drop in the ocean compared to some rock tours. From the insanely big to the just plain insane, musicians have done it all on the road. These are some of greatest tours in music history. 1. Ozzy Osbourne and Motley Crue, Bark at the Moon Tour, 1984 Ozzy was going solo that year after a tumultuous tour with Black Sabbath, but he certainly didn’t keep a low profile. One tale from the road goes that when the legendary wild-child of metal asked for a line of cocaine from Motley Crue bass player Nikki Sixx, only to find out there wasn’t any left, he improvised by getting down on his hands and knees with a plastic straw and snorting a line of ants marching down the pavement. Later Sixx said: “From that moment on we knew there was always someone who was sicker and more disgusting than we were.” 2. The Who Tour 1967 Stories had gone around for a while about Keith Moon’s love of destruction, and by the time The Who reached the US, there wasn’t a hotel room safe from Moon’s own signature demolition technique – a lit stick of dynamite shoved into a toilet. But it was the band’s stay in Flint, Michigan, at the Holiday Inn, that sealed his almost god-like reputation for mayhem. He celebrated his 21st birthday with the usual (dynamite-induced) bang, driving a Lincoln Continental – or a Cadillac depending on who’s telling the story – into the hotel swimming pool to a stunned crowd of partygoers. 3. U2 360° Tour, 2009-2011 The Irish mega-band racked up the biggest tour in the history of music between 2009 and 2011. Over the two-year period, U2 played 110 sold-out shows worldwide. More than 7million fans came to see them play, paying more than US$700m (£435m) for the privilege, a record gross income for a music tour by any band.
tntdownunder.com
720_Focus.indd 18
24/4/13 10:16:48 PM
DISCOUNT
Discount upon presentation of this advert. Valid for single transaction only. Not to conjunction with any other offe be used in r or discount. Expires 30 September 2013.
Karetoto Road, Wairakei Tourist Park (10 minutes north of TaupĹ?)
HukafallsJet VJ-1235
0800 4 THRILLS
01_NZ96p3-27upfront.indd 19
29/04/13 2:26 PM
filmreview
follow us on
@tnt_downunder
A terror attack on the U.S. Good timing, Gerard Butler
olympus has fallen FILM review by Adele Rogers. Out now Starring: Gerald Butler, Aaron Eckhart, Morgan Freeman, Rhada Mitchell | MA | 120mins
the company you keep Review by James Besanvalle Robert Redford, Shia LeBeouf, Susan Sarandon | M | 125mins
This political action thriller follows the tale of a small-town journalist who uncovers the true identities of ex-radical US activists. A brilliant opening montage establishes the backstory, as we’re introduced to a string of secrets and hidden identities. Sarandon steals the show and if you don’t mind seeing a few seconds of Robert Redford’s wrinkled and freckled chest, this is a must-see. 20
Back in 1988 John McClane defeated German terrorist Hans Gruber and his motley crew at the Nakatomi Plaza. Not since Bruce Willis played this repeated role in the Die Hard series had there been another John McClane – until now. Secret Service agent Mike Banning (Gerard Butler) plays the new ‘one-man versus hard-nut terrorists’ in this action-thriller flick. The former presidential guard is reassigned to the Treasury Office following a freak accident where Banning saves the President (Aaron Eckhart) but not the First Lady. Down the track, during a meeting with the South Korean President, the White House comes under brutal attack by an angry pack of North Koreans. Banning races to the scene and manages to make his way inside the White House where terrorists are holding the President hostage in the bunker. In a violent blood bath where Banning is the only good-guy left standing, he must work with acting President (Freeman) and National Security to save the day. Producers could never have predicted the real-life issues with North Korea to align the release of this film so seamlessly. Washington and Olympus (the secret service name for the White House) are in a hell of a state following the attack eerily reminiscent of 9/11. Somehow amongst the brutality they successfully manage to throw in a few laughs. Even the Americanisation of the film, in itself, is a bit of a giggle. If you enjoy lengthy violent sequences with no restrain on ruthlessness, and a good old-fashioned hero, this film won’t disappoint. Good for: Bullets, explosions and wham-bam Hollywood action
tntdownunder.com
96_Film.indd 20
24/4/13 9:21:00 PM
FrEE Rooftop Spa FrEE Sauna FrEE 2-4-1 arrival drink FrEE Tea & coffee FrEE 15 Minutes internet 16-20 Fort street, downtown auckland
FlEXiblE accommodaTion Pass
NZ
MNaid ghts
7 nights Mad new Zealand Pass
Dont forget to check out our other Mad Choice NZ hostels
Kiwi Paka Rotorua
Taupo Urban Retreat
Crash Palace Rotorua
Kiwi Paka Waitomo
Nomads Capital Wellington
Nomads Queenstown
nomadsworld.com - bookings@nomadsworld.com - +64 9 300 9999 Untitled-1 01_NZ96p3-27upfront.indd 1 21
18/02/13 29/04/13 12:01 2:20 PM
HOTSHOTS
follow us on
WINNER
@tnt_downunder follow us on
@tnt_downunder
WINNER Cloud control juhe han, 26, South Korea
juhe says: “This photo was taken while I was tramping in New Zealand around the beautiful mountains of Routeburn Track.”
we say: “This is a really beautiful photograph of a really beautiful part of the world. Just look at how stunning those mountains are! Not to mention the fluffy whiteness of the clouds. Great photo Juhe, keep up the good work! ”
RUNNER-UP
RUNNER-UP
counting sheep James Frenton, 27, Ireland
James says: “I snapped this photo from behind the wheel when we got held up by these woolly locals on the dramatic drive to Mount Cook” we say: “What an awesome photo. We have a soft spot for mountains here at TNT NZ... and sheep. Great work, James!”
22
HOT TIPS: Texture
two northland tours
Texture introduces the illusion of a tactile quality. Everything has a texture – even if it is the absence of it. A smooth surface is just as tactile as a rough piece of wood. The trick is using that texture in a photo to its full potential to add depth to your composition. Textures are generally used best when lit from the side. For gentle textures like feathers or fur a soft, diffused light is good while hard textures like stone look better in hard light. Photographing texture alone gives rise to great abstracts and surprising images of everyday scenes and objects.
Juhe wins a Total Northland Pass for him and a friend from Magic Travellers Network (magicbus.co.nz), while runnerup James wins a Black Labyrinth rafting voucher from the Legendary Black Water Rafting Co (waitomo.com). Winners are chosen by the TNT team, with the editor’s decision being final. To enter the next Hot Shots competition, send your best travel photos (300 dpi jpegs), along with your name, age, nationality and a description, to hugh@tntdownunder.com
WIN
tntdownunder.com
96_HotShots.indd 22
24/4/13 10:00:33 PM
TRAVELNEWS
like us on
facebook/tntdownunder
Iraq: going green? According to a one of the world’s most prestigious environmental prizes, Iraq’s southern marshes could be the next big thing in eco-tourism. Azzam Alwash believes the rejuvenation of the marshes will soon enable tourists to regularly visit and stay in the area. “It is a truly magical place,” he said. “My dream is for the marshes to become a major stop for eco-tourists, with floating hotels and the Marsh Arabs giving guided tours. No self-respecting birder can complete their life’s checklist until they’ve visited the marshes.”
Photos: Thinkstock
Banned on the run
23
From December 2015 travelling circuses in England will be banned from using wild animals. Introducing a draft bill in parliament, junior environment minister Robert Ponsonby said circus operators had until then to adapt and find homes for their animals. “This legislation will end the use of wild animals in travelling circuses in this country. It will also help ensure that our international reputation as a leading protector of animals continues into a new global era,” he said. Good, anyone who has ever seen an elephant in a tutu will forever wish they hadn’t!
Changi on top Singapore’s Changi Airport has been voted the World’s Best Airport at the 2013 World Airport Awards held in Geneva earlier this month. It’s the fourth time the airport has captured this rather prestigious prize, last tasting victory in 2010. The award is given based on votes of global travellers, with 12.1 million votes being tallied this year across 395 airports. Changi has 330 retail outlets and 120 food and beverage options. They also won the Best Airport for Leisure Amenities. Pity it shares its name with an infamous Japanese POW camp from World War II.
MTV SYdney The NSW government is hoping MTV online will boost Sydney tourism by partnering with the youth music channel. MTV’s online tourism arm is promoting the harbour city as one of only five destinations to be showcased on its mtvtravelco. com site. The tie-up will feature Sydney as the only city in Australia on the site for the next two years. The others cities are London, New York, Los Angeles and Berlin. Tourism minister George Souris said it’s intended to attract a new crop of tourists“I am delighted that Sydney will be showcased to a new generation of travellers on MTV’s website.”
tntdownunder.com
96_TravelNews.indd 23
29/04/13 2:14 PM
travellerstale At my whit’s end
American JUSTIN STEINLAUF discovered a skill for sailing and a new hashtag during his trip to the Whitsundays in far north Queensland. Having heard countless awesome stories from my mates that have visited the beautiful Whitsunday Islands, I thought it was about time that I took advantage of the cheap flights on offer from Tiger Airways and get myself up to the crystal blue waters of the Whitsundays. With only three days to experience as much as I could, I went straight from the runway to Abel Point Marina at Airlie Beach for a four hour jetski adventure! Luckily for me, I had the privilege to share a 50 kilometer adventurous jetski trek with “happy days” Ange. Moving from Brisbane to Airlie Beach a year ago, Ange lives in paradise working at the travel desk at Airliebeach.com. After a short safety introduction from Steve the owner of Jetski Tours, it was time to get suited up and hop on
24
the Seadoo, forming a single line out of the harbour and into the open waters. Nearly full throttle following the jetskis ahead of us we zoomed around Daydream Island, South, Mid and North Mole Islands which are part of the 74 Whitsunday Islands. We took a picturesque pit stop at Daydream Island for lunch and after holding a shark, petting a stingray and cuddling a sea slug it was time to switch drivers and hang on for dear life. Not long after, we both ended up flying off the jetski straight into the ocean. Did I mention it was stinger season? After surviving the unreal experience of jetting around the offshore islands we end our day with a cold beverage and a steak at the popular backpacker haunt, Beaches. Waking up slightly hungover I headed back to the marina to board a 52-foot, former Sydney to Hobart racing boat called Iceberg. Welcomed with open arms and great knowledge of the sea was our entertaining Skipper
follow followus uson on
@tnt_downunder @tnt_downunder
Jesse. Without ever being on a proper sailing boat I was able to assist Sophia the deckhand to set sail. With no more than 12 passengers on board, you really get the space to take it all in and be part of the sailing experience and relax. The awesome thing about a two full day tour is that you fit a lot in and get to snorkel three of the best island reefs and explore the postcard Whitehaven Beach, including Blue Pearl Bay and the famous local humpheaded Maori Wrasse called Elvis. Man, this guy was massive! After a tasty lunch we checked out a long beach lying in the water during low tide, appropriately called Long Reef. Everywhere I turned, I couldn’t stop taking pictures, the weather gods really turned it on for me. It’s not everyday that you don’t have to add a filter to your Instagram photo to make it look better, but no, not here, not at the stunning Whitehaven Beach. This is the ‘must see’ place I imagined. Although there were heaps of other boat tours, we got lucky and got to walk on the softest and whitest sand and swim with the stingrays in the clearest clear water all to ourselves. To top it off, our Skipper suggested we hike up the Hill Inlet Lookout to check out the sand formations resulting from the outgoing tide. The pictures I took there where so amazing that I even started using a new hashtag called #nofilter because of this. Nothing beats being out on the sea, beer in hand, meeting new and interesting fellow travellers. But before my short holiday ends, I had to check out the so-called ultimate Sunday Session at the World Nomads Bar in Airlie, and man it was pumping! Do I really have to fly back home now? Justin travelled with iSail Whitsundays (1 night /2 day tour starting at $379). Daydream Extreme do jetski tours from $190. For more info see airliebeach.com
write for TNT! Send us your scary, funny or embarrassing travel tale (preferably about Australia or New Zealand) and we might publish your story! Email your tales (700 words max), to editor@tntdownunder.com
tntdownunder.com
96_TravellersTale.indd 24
29/4/13 2:13:32 PM
like us on
traveloffers
facebook/tntdownunder
Seen atravel deal Standbycars.com you’d liketo share? special offer !!! re!! Sha
AJ Hackett Bungy NZ special offer
1 m$ Fro
seen a travel deal while in New Zealand that you’d like to share? Email Justin@tntdownunder.com with details of any amazing deals you’ve taken advantage of while in the Land of the Long White Cloud! The backpacking comunity is all about sharing and caring! Let us at TNT in on the secret and we will make sure we spread the love!
Details MELBOURNE CAMPERVANS FOR $5/DAY! We have 2,4 and 6 berth campervans available in Melbourne for just $5/day! Some of these vehicles also include a fuel allowance. Standbycars.com is the largest relocation agent within Australia and New Zealand with approximately 300 relocation deals daily! destination These vehicles are available for travel to Darwin, Sydney, Brisbane or Perth. Dates Available for travel from May 1 until June 23! HOW TO BOOK Visit Standbyrelocs. com or email info@standbycars. com. Or call 1300 789 059 (AU) or 0800 789 059 (NZ).
5 e $2 Sav
AJ Hackett Bungy NZ Details Book ONLINE, 30 days in advance, using the Online Promo Code ‘30DAY’ and get $25 off per person. destination Queenstown and Auckland, New Zealand Dates While offer lasts. HOW TO BOOK Book online at www.bungy.co.nz WEB www.bungy.co.nz
your r o f n o i tures modat accom aland adven e New Z With 45+ New Zealand hostels, you can skydive 134 metres in 8 seconds or plummet screaming on a bungy and still sleep soundly! YHA have got your accommodation sorted. Easy as.
299 ow: Book n ne 0800 278 o h Free p .nz yha.co book@ .nz .co or yha
tntdownunder.com
TRAVELOFFERS_NZ96.indd 25
25
29/04/13 2:53 PM
like us on
facebook/tntdownunder follow us on
WIN WIN
@tntdownunder
how to enter
Go to tntdownunder.com and click on the WIN page. See webpage for terms and conditions. Winners will be selected at random.
Win 3 Day Campervan hire fro Some wise old hippy once told us that you should “focus on the journey, rather than the destination, man” and we tend to agree – especially when it comes to New Zealand. Getting off the beaten track is the best way to see the real country, meet the locals and see the kinds of sights that you’d otherwise pass over (quite literally if you’re travelling by plane). That’s where we come in. With a Mighty Campervan you can traverse the land of the long white cloud in style, and in comfort. You can wind your way down from the North to the South Island in these wheels taking in everything from the architecturally beautiful Auckland to the wild party town of Queenstown. We’re offering one lucky reader campervan hire in one of Mighty’s latest
vans. They’ve got lots of headroom, all the creature comforts of home and a brand spanking new layout. THE PRIZE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING FOR ONE PERSON: three days campervan hire: Drive off in one of Mighty’s Jackpot Campervans with a three day hire voucher including the ‘Almighty Liability’ option.
worth over
$522
Competition closes Sunday, June 10, 2013. Log on to tntdownunder.com for further details and to enter.
26 26 tntdownunder.com tntdownunder.com
COMP_96AH.indd 26
24/4/13 10:10:22 PM
like us on
facebook/tntdownunder
follow us on
@tnt_downunder
Total prizes worth over
,600 rom$3Mighty Cars + Campers
tntdownunder.com
COMP_96AH.indd 27
27
24/4/13 10:10:45 PM
Images: Cardrona, Justin Steinlauf, AJ Hackett Bungy, Shotover Canyon Swing
Queenstown
South island
28
tntdownunder.com
QT_NZ96.indd 28
29/4/13 2:37:22 PM
like us on
NZtrip
facebook/tntdownunder
Get ready to stumble Queenstown, the adventure capital of NZ, comes into its own during the winter with epic snowfall and an even bigger nightlife
Images: Cardrona, Justin Steinlauf, AJ Hackett Bungy, Shotover Canyon Swing
Words Alex Harmon
“This is better than sex,” he says as he WHEN TO GO: The ski a youthful energy to it, almost like a college stands on the edge of the Kawarau bridge town. The town is populated by the young season starts in early June and in Queenstown. I’m next in line to jump and lasts until mid October although and fit dressed in North Face snow wear, I’m sitting on the wooden floor, my feet carrying snowboards with tussled hair and the areas typically stay open tied together, shaking as I try not to look mountain-kissed pink faces. Walking around until the snow stops falling. See over the edge. Instead I try to focus on the town it appears that the median age is 25. It cardrona.com and nzski. spectacular mountains and the sun piercing is no wonder that the daredevil adventures com/remarkables the river below. Something tells me that his can be found on every corner and in every What to do: Jump the experience with sex is not unlike the bungy. shop window. As one Kiwi local tells me: “I Kawarau Bridge Bungy with AJ A whole lot of nerves and high expectations guess we live on the edge of the world, so Hackett Bungy bungy.co.nz. – but over very quickly. we treat life on the edge!” Big Night Out do pub crawls It is my first day in Queenstown, New The next day we’re off on a spine-tingling every night except Sunday and Zealand, arguably one of the adventure drive through Wanaka and up to Cardrona Monday. $25 gets you entry and capitals of the world. Even the flight was an Alpine Resort. Although the Remarkables five drinks at five bars. adrenalin-junkie’s hit. As we descended into (“Remarks” as the locals say) are closer and bignightout.net.nz town, the downdrafts from the Remakables more accessible, it’s Cardrona where the Stay: Reavers Lodge offer mountain range caused the plan to dip up Kiwis like to ski. The snow is better, the runs beds from $28/night including and down, like a rollercoaster. Thankfully, wider and the crowds kept at a minimum. breakfast. reavers.co.nz/. the show I witnessed through the windows On the plane to Queenstown I read about Nomads Queenstown have beds of ice-capped mountains and Lord of the from $24/night. nomadsworld. the legend of Cardrona’s bra fence. I ask our guide about the fence on the side of Rings-style scenery, averted my eyes from the com/hostels/new-zealand/ the road where it’s tradition for women to nomads-queenstown air-hostesses who literally bounced around hang their bra. “Unfortunately the council Getting there: the plane. removed the bras in 2006,” she says. “There Air New Zealand flies to Queenstown is the temptress your parents were around 800 bras before they shut it warn you about. She’s dangerous, seductive, Queenstown daily, see: down. The council thought it was an eyesore beautiful and if you’re not careful, she’ll have airnewzealand.com.au and a distraction for drivers.” Dismayed you spinning out of control. For more: we drive on through the long and winding The town, which is built around the queenstownnz.co.nz roads. The higher we get, the harder it is to see. deep blue Lake Wakatipu is famous for its adventure activities: mountain biking, jet boating, Snow time like the right time whitewater rafting and, of course, bungy jumping. You’ll spot the tourists easily, bungy protocol means you must have ‘Aotearoa’ is the Maori word for New Zealand, which your weight brandished on your hand in red marker. The roughly translates as ‘the land of the long white cloud’ and truly brave are marked like livestock cattle. up here in the heavenly surrounds, the description couldn’t be more apt. Lord of the high-flyers Although it’s September and approaching the end of the ski season, the snow hasn’t waned. When we reach the While New Zealand may be famous for producing worldslopes I tell our guide that I’ve never seen this much snow renowned wine and food, putting them amongst some of the most sophisticated regions of the world, Queenstown has before. “Really?” she asks me with a smile on her face. “I ›› tntdownunder.com
QT_NZ96.indd 29
29
29/4/13 2:37:38 PM
A typical scene with the Big Night Out crew haven’t been up this season because we haven’t had a very good snow fall.” I look around in amazement, it’s white as far as the eye can see. Once we’re boarded up we wait at the chair lifts to be given the all clear by the snow officials. We slide our boards along, making the first tracks of the day. I’m not a very good snowboarder, by any means, but I spend the day with the Christmas carol, Walking in a Winter Wonderland in my head. The snow is so thick and powdery that my falls are cushioned and the turns I manoeuvre make me feel like I’m surfing in soft waves. Meeting our guide at the end of the day, I tell her about the awesome “powder” I’ve been carving up. She laughs and says, “it’s so funny how you think this is powder. I go off-piste skiing up here and have been in snow so deep that I’ve been stuck up to my waist.”
Skiing leads to sipping There’s a great mix of bars in the heart of town, dotted around the cobbled lanes. After a few après ski drinks, you could almost think you were in Europe. There are backpacker bars where you can get lost amongst a sea of twentysomethings on an organised pub crawl. Or you can settle into one of the many wine bars where the fire is roaring and the ambiance is elegant. We opt for the former, joining Big Night Out on their Saturday night pub crawl. This company are renound around town for their crawl, which quickly turns into a stumble, through some of Queenstown’s finest backpacker bars. We begin at Altitude Bar where shots and drinking games await and then we’re whisked away to Revolver where, you guessed it, shots are greeting us as we walk through the door. I’m told there are three more bars we passed through but god knows if I can tell you their names. I fall out after the last one, greeted by the crisp air which brings some inkling of life back to my drained body. The next thing I know I am lured into Fergburger for my second burger of the day. This place is legendary and at any given time of day – or night – there is a massive line of people hungry for 30
The Kawarua Bridge looks pretty from afar...
tntdownunder.com
QT_NZ96.indd 30
29/4/13 2:40:11 PM
New Zealand’s best burgers. The Chief Wiggum is a cheekily named pork belly burger which becomes my bedfellow for the night.
Jumping for joy Queenstown has the highest bar-to-person ratio in New Zealand and it’s no surprise, given that what goes up must come down. After a day of not one, but two bungy jumps, alcohol was a necessity. You see I was coaxed into the first bungy almost through trickery. I am taken to the Kawarau Bridge Bungy, the world’s first commercial bungy jump to participate in some people-watching. A few quick snaps of the brave and incredibly fearless people who are throwing themselves off the 45 metre bridge and our guide says, “well now that we’re here, you may as well jump.” Turns out, unprepared is best possible disposition. Before I know it, my legs are tied together with rope and I’m standing on the edge of the bridge. I focus on the mountains ahead and tell myself not to do the unthinkable and look down. Sensing my fear, the bungy masters are kind and slowly count back from three before I stretch my arms out like Jesus on the cross and fall forward. The blood rushes to my head and I hold my breath, frozen in position, not even able so scream. Until – bounce – I reach the length of
NEVIS UmeNtrGesY B 134 G IN W S NthEe woVIS rld’s biggest swing
www.bungy.co.nz tntdownunder.com
QT_NZ96.indd 31
31
29/4/13 2:40:30 PM
the rope’s tether and realise I have survived. It’s now time to scream and I do so for several minutes. The best feeling about bungy is knowing that it’s over and that you’ve accomplished something that most people would never even attempt. I wouldn’t say its better than sex, but it’s the best piece of action I got in Queenstown. That’s one thing you can count on in the south island’s adventure capital – action is found on every corner of the town – you just have to pick your vice. ❚
Shotover Canyon Swing by Rory Platt
One experience that absolutely cannot be missed on a visit to Queenstown is the Shotover Canyon Swing. If you only have the funds to do one extreme sport (and you must do AT LEAST one), this is the one that trumps the rest. You might be thinking that the Canyon Swing would be something like a bungy jump, and if you have the stones to do one of those then surely the Canyon Swing would be a breeze. Wrong. Jump off a bridge with a bungee cord attached to your legs and you might fall far, but not long into your fall the elastic will begin to slow you down. The Shotover Canyon Swing has no elastic, so you experience true free fall for 60m followed by a 200m arc across the canyon. Exhilarating. Remember that trust game, where you fall backwards and the person behind will catch you? It’s an exercise in learning to embrace vulnerability and ignore your instinctual urge to catch yourself. Now imagine playing that game over a 60m drop and you already have an idea of what the real experience of the Shotover Canyon Swing is. Unlucky for you, the jumpmaster’s, who will lead you to the edge of a platform and help you jump off in absolute safety, love to take advantage of your vulnerable position. Expect to spend the last moments before your jump with your heart in your mouth and two guys laughing at the fear in your eyes. Of course it’s all part of the fun, so rest assured that safety comes before their japes and you’ll be swinging across the canyon fully intact thanks to them. There’s a huge variety of ways to jump off the platform, over 70 to be more exact, each one requiring a different level of cojones. Backwards, forwards, frontflip, back-flip or even the legendary ‘Indian Rope Trick’. This last one will hopefully be the closest you ever come to dangling off an extremely high place, relying on your own strength to keep you from falling. Major muscles required, and expect the jumpmaster’s to play some mean tricks on you while you’re hanging on. One jump will cost you NZ$199 and is well worth the money. When your adrenalin is fully pumped after your first jump you might be dying for another go, in which case each following jump will cost NZ$39. See: canyonswing.co.nz
32
tntdownunder.com
QT_NZ96.indd 32
29/4/13 2:44:50 PM
Pretty remarkable snow, eh?
Queenstown? Snow?...Holiday! With a package for everyone, there’s snow excuse not to …
#+## %*, ')' “
“
n in Queenstow The best rushied them all + I’ve tr , UK
George Gunn
tntdownunder.com
QT_NZ96.indd 33
33
29/4/13 2:45:05 PM
Rotorua North island
34
tntdownunder.com
96_RotoruaAHv5.indd 34
24/04/13 10:05 PM
like us on
facebook/tntdownunder
Oztrip
Adventure central Rotorua is the North Island’s go-to spot for those seeking a dose of adrenalin and excitement – and a dash of Kiwi culture Words Jahn Vannisselroy
We can hear it before we can see it. It’s time for startled profanities. Everything the monster that’s been stalking our every goes white and wet. Extremely wet. I’m WHERE: Rotorua is found in conscious moment since we’ve launched our disorientated. Am I in our out of the boat? the central North Island, a tworafts on the waters of the Kaituna River, near and-a-half hour car journey from Are we upside down? What’s happening? Rotorua. And when I say monster, I mean not Then daylight. And I look around to see all my Auckland a taniwha (the Maori version of the Loch Ness WHEN: Rotorua is an all-year- crew safe. Then it hits me: option two; we’re monster) but instead the fear of Okere Falls, round destination, but summer is surfing the whitewater. Result. a seven metre vertical drop into a swirling, definitely the best time to visit kaitiaki.co.nz bubbling cauldron of whitewater. OUT ON THE TOWN: Tamaki Maori Village Okere’s the world’s highest commercially Head down Rotorua’s rafted waterfall, and has attracted pedestrian-friendly ‘Eat Streat’ My hand shoots into the air. Well, they did international coverage through the like of TV’s for a spot of alfresco dining. ask for a volunteer. I’m still a bit miffed I Knock back a pint or two at didn’t put myself forward on the bus ride Amazing Race and Jack Osborne: Adrenaline award-winning Brew, which to Tamaki Maori village when the driver Junkie. Now it’s going to cover me and my serves up a top variety of craft was seeking a “big, strong handsome chief” crew of six fellow adventurers, who are going beer. brewpub.co.nz to lead us into the village. But then nostraight over it. As a result, there’ll be three one did - and the honour fell to Steve, a outcomes: we’ll either land, submerge slightly STAY: YHA Rotorua lanky Scotsman. He had to a face a warrior and then exit the froth; we’ll land, submerge Treks Backpackers, the best challenge and had the responsibility of slightly and then surf the whitewater; or we’ll backpackers in town. leading us into war should things go wrong. land upside down, losing members of our yha.co.nz Yeah, I probably didn’t want that role seven-strong crew and who knows what else. TREAT YOURSELF: anyway. Option two’s the best, Raana, our guide tells us. Head to Hells Gate Mud Spa, However, my aim in this instance is to Until this point, we’ve been cruising the the region’s most active thermal take part in Maui-Matau, a stick game Kaituna, taking a few minor drops, learning to park, for a relaxing afternoon being demonstrated under the shelter of paddle as a team. But now our monster – our wallowing in geothermal Tamaki’s expansive Tawa forest. So far, as ball of fear, trepidation and anxiety – is ready mud and water. Massage we’ve toured the village to take part in and for us. It demands we meet it. Raana pulls our and pampering packages are learn about Maori cultural traditions and raft to the side of the river as we each crane available too. hellsgate.co.nz I’ve seen other visitors perform averagely our neck to try and see what lies ahead. We with their lack of skill at performing a haka, singing and can’t quite. Before we paddle around the corner to face our poi-twirling. There’s a discernible lack of commitment; a fear, Raana asks those who have gone before us for strength: fear of getting it wrong. So when I step up, I’m determined he chants. After each of his three chants to ask for bravery, to win – irrespective of whether Leanne, my girlfriend, strength and patience we respond by yelling “Toa!” cry at is also competing. We each hold the top of the stick and the top of lungs. The result is akin to a gorilla beating his the gamesmaster, dressed only in a grass skirt and some chest. Adrenalin pumps though my veins, fear is momentarily fearsome looking tattoos, commands either Maui (left) or forgotten and I’m ready, nay excited, to meet the monster. Matau (right), requiring us to drop our stick and move in And then Raana pushes us off. “Paddle, paddle,” he orders, that direction. Move in the wrong direction, hesitate or lack and each of us dig in. There’s no turning back now. “Down,” agility and you’re gone. Raana commands as we reach the lip of the waterfall. There’s A fast game’s a good game and soon it’s only me and no second take and we plunge into the unknown with scarcely
tntdownunder.com
96_RotoruaAHv5.indd 35
35
24/04/13 10:05 PM
The crazy Kiwis and their inventions... Leanne left standing. I’m ready to win. “Matau,” the gamesmaster yells and although I lunge to the right, I find I can’t quite make it to my stick. It crashes to the ground in slow motion, creating a mini dust cloud on the forest’s dusty carpet. The crowd hollers with laughter as I turn to see the gamesmaster with my shirt in his hand. Leanne glows with pride as he whispers in my ear “Well done Waiheke (the name of my hometown). You gave it a good shot.” And after a cultural performance in the Wharenui (big house) featuring joyful singing, expert poi twirling, rhythmic guitar playing, a fearsome weapons demonstration and a talented man who can replicate bird calls, I give the hangi meal a good shot, too. Chicken, beef, lamb, fish, potato, kumara: a feast all cooked in hessian sacks in a coal pit beneath the earth. Any thoughts of losing Maui-Matau are forgotten and I think to myself that next time, I might just put my hand up to be chief. tamakimaorivillage.co.nz
there’s no fighting here – just flight. The ground rushes up to meet us. My hand grips Leanne’s arm tighter and we all yell “ Faarrrrrrrrkkkkk” as the rope saves us from death by helping us avoid the ground by what feels like mere centimetres. We shoot upwards into the sky, the feeling of weightlessness at the very top of the arc worth the price of admission alone. My whining turns to laughter, the laughter of someone who’s escaped from his torturer and lived to tell the tale. That wasn’t so bad, I tell myself. Perhaps I’ve got Stockholm Syndrome. Anyhow, it makes everything else Agroventures has to offer seem a walk in the park, although they’re all great fun: the Freefall Xtreme skydive simulator, the only one of its kind in the southern hemisphere; the Shweeb, a one-of-a-kind aerodynamic racing pod; the Agrojet, NZ’s fastest jetboat in which you reach speeds of 100km/h. agroventures.co.nz
Photos: Agroventure Park,Tamaki Maori Village
Agroventure Park
36
I hate heights. If I was ever being tortured, I reckon I could withstand a bit of Chinese water interrogation, a good beating or two – hell, perhaps even some waterboarding. But here I am, strapped in on Agroventure’s Swoosh ride, one of five at the adventure park, waiting for someone I met half an hour ago to pull the rip cord of this superswing, which will send us plummeting to the ground before correcting in a huge arc to hurl us high, backwards and forth. I don’t care there’s a camera on me; I’m just going to try and talk my way through this one. It’s all I’ve got. “Hurry up, pull the cord,” Leanne yells to the operators on the ground, not realising that alongside us, Ben, our guide, has it in his evil little hand. “3,2,1,” he counts down. And then it happens. My stomach comes up to meet my heart, which seems to be racing to meet my brain. There are split seconds of blur, split seconds of clarity and a rush of adrenaline. Survival comes down to fight or flight, but
Think mud pools are boring?
tntdownunder.com
96_RotoruaAHv5.indd 36
24/04/13 10:06 PM
The home of the Zorb Diving down a hill inside a giant ball filled with water seems like madness. Until I do it. And then I want more. I must have more. Luckily for me, I can. I can do it solo. I can do it with someone else. I can do it wet. I can do it dry (although wet is better). I can go higher, faster, smoother, bumpier. And so I do. Zorbing never gets boring, because each journey inside the big orb is unique. My speed changes, I hit different points on each ride, and I find another way to ride the inside of these happy, bouncy rubber orbs. It’s a wild ride, spinning in the variation known as the Zydro, in which me and Leanne are sloshing around in cold water on a hot summer’s day (in winter the water’s warm). I can’t help but laugh seeing her face as she initially freak outs and then bursts into spontaneous laughter after realising she’s safe. And the tumbling continues, into a huge fence, down a tiny drop, while we remain cushioned inside, the only danger getting the stitch from laughing too much. The Zydro is similar to a waterslide, but far more fun and far less predictable. We emerge from our zorb, a couple of drenched rats, with ear-to-ear smiles and beating hearts. We take on all the rides, including the famous ‘Zig Zag’ track, although my favourite is definitely ‘The Drop’, in which I try and remain on my feet, riding the zorb down a steep decline which offers a heart-stopping fall, after which my laughter of relief is quickly overtaken by my whoops and hollers as I gather my fastest speed of the day. zorb.com Whakarewarewa Forest I’m flinging myself down a gravel hill on the coolest bike I’ve ever been on, a 2013 Santa Cruz Heckler. I pedal like a maniac and then jam on the brakes and slide along the gravel, leaving a trail of dust in my wake. Josh, my of Multi-day Adventures guide, looks on, impressed at my skid. It’s not good enough
to beat his, but then he’s a pro and I’m a casual rider. Still, I’m getting better. One day I’ll win a skid contest. Me, Leanne and Josh are about to head off into the Whakarewarewa Forest, which features an incredible everevolving network of mountain biking tracks that stretch for over 90km. The terrains is that good that mountain bikers from all corners of the globe descend on Rotorua to take advantages of the awesome tracks, only five minutes from the city centre. To give you an idea of how good the riding is, the economic value of mountain biking to the forest is estimated at five times its annual timber revenue. Josh is the perfect guide, telling us of the pitfalls to watch out for, but also encouraging us to let loose and “just ride”. If we’re going to tumble, it going to happen (although it doesn’t) but we soon discover that it’s actually safer to ride faster – as well as a hell of a lot more fun. Despite being sheltered from the sun by the forest canopy, it’s hot work and Josh senses we may be flagging as we ride higher into the forest in preparation for another run. “You keen to get wet?” he asks. “Definitely,” I reply, although I’m puzzled at the lack of rivers around here. Are we gonna splash about in some septic forestry water? “Local knowledge,” he says, as he disappears down a hidden track at the side of the road. “Follow me.” We do, lugging our bikes down a bank in the bush, before stalking through branches and vines to emerge at an old water reservoir, built around a natural fresh water spring. I’m first to leap in, and although it’s a hot day the water is ice-cold, refreshing but unbearable after 30 seconds. I climb out, quickly dry off under the hot Rotorua sun and then perform a couple more bombs before we make our way out of the bush. Refreshed, we ride into yet another trail, again navigating the winding run, getting air off mini jumps as Whakarewarewa keeps on providing all the adventure you can pack into a day. Multidayadventures.co.nz
Thar she blows...
tntdownunder.com
96_RotoruaAHv5.indd 37
37
24/04/13 10:07 PM
Nasouri Highland Fiji
38
tntdownunder.com
96_FijiLF.indd 38
24/4/13 8:27:11 PM
like us on
BIGTRIP
facebook/tntdownunder
A kava conversion We head to a remote village on the mainland of Fiji, where an unlikely spiritual awakening and bucketloads of local brew await Words Alex harmon
It’s a number of years since I’ve stepped inside a church for a Sunday service. I’m wearing some rosary beads that were bought by a friend – an ironic gift to an atheist. Despite the heat, we are told to cover up out of respect for the locals. Noticing that I’m carelessly under-dressed, my tour guide rummages through the bus and finds me a sarong and an oversized T-shirt with ‘Fiji’ written on the front. It was conservative enough, even if I do appear to be styled by a church charity. Inside the House of God, in the Nausori Village, about an hour’s bus ride from Suva, it’s not our clothing that attract stares. Rather, it’s the 12 of us, mostly faithless Westerners, in a remote Fijian village, crashing a Sunday church service that solicit constant attention. The children can’t concentrate on the service, their eyes transfixed on the two rows of foreigners cooling themselves with woven raffia fans. They whisper to each other, smile and giggle when we smile back. Intermittently, the all-female church choir, decked out in white dresses, breaks into song and the room fills with beautiful music. Putting my own reservations about organised religion aside, I am overcome with a heartwarming feeling, coupled with the last remnants of Catholic guilt. The people in this village, who have no access to electricity are happier, more grounded and more enlightened than most Sydneysiders I know. Finding my religion After the church service we stand outside, greeting the congregation as they come through the doors. We form a line, shaking hands with each person, exchanging “bulas” and smiling from ear to ear. Some of the older ladies kiss us on the cheeks, touch our heads and treat us like they’ve known us their whole lives. Ordinarily, I’d find this confronting but their genuine warmth and excitement is infectious – I’ve even forgotten that I look like a castaway in oversized clothes.
One of the churchgoers who speaks English takes us on a tour of the local village. His name is Samuel and he’s one of the Christian missionaries. He wears a crisp white shirt, navy sulu – basically a man-skirt – and a very serious demeanor. This is in stark contrast to our Fijian guide, Jerry, who drinks beer with breakfast and tells us he falls in love with a new girl on every tour. Samuel shows us inside some of the houses, made mostly of tin. They’re humble and unadorned, with outdoor toilets and beds on the floor made from layers of pandanus leaf. We’re taken inside one of the houses to see a family of 11 eating their lunch. Walking through the village, I hoist my sarong above my knees to avoid the mud from the morning’s rain. As it’s slippery, I hang onto the guy next to me to avoid going skidding down the path. Samuel looks at me with disdain – it must be my uncoordinated tiptoeing that has attracted his attention. It’s not. He pulls me aside. “Miss, you must not wear your sarong like that,” he whispers. “You must not show your knees to the locals – it is very disrespectful.” Ashamed, I quickly lower the length of my sarong, apologising for my ignorance. He returns to the front of the pack and directs us to the village chief’s bure, where we’ll be having lunch. En route, the guys from my tour make a beeline for me and with mock disappointment, brandi me the “village whore”. The chief’s bure – a hut, essentially – is the village’s town hall. It’s the most impressive building there, made of bamboo and coconut tree materials. Entering, we are treated to more singing by the locals and a traditional kava ceremony. The Village People Kava is special to the Fijian people. Sure, it looks like ditch water and has a strangely medicinal, dentist’s mouthwash taste, but it’s a special, ceremonial drink with natural calming effects. It is used for all occasions, from welcoming important guests to celebrating a child’s birth.
tntdownunder.com
96_FijiLF.indd 39
39
24/4/13 8:27:30 PM
The local kava brewery
“
The English reverend was killed and eaten for insulting a village
”
The village chief sits in front of us, wearing a threepiece suit and no shoes, but retains an aura that demands respect. Jerry, our guide, appoints a “chief” from our group who presents the village chief with a gift of Kava root. It’s very important to respect the village chief – if you show up emptyhanded you probably won’t be allowed to enter the building. It reinforces the story Jerry related earlier that morning on the bus. “Back in the cannibalistic days, a reverend from England was killed and eaten for insulting a village when he touched the hair of the chief,” he says. We look shocked, quietly wondering how much of the cannibalism is exaggerated for the benefit of campfire ghost stories. “If you don’t believe me you can go to the museum in Suva and see the boiled sole of a shoe. It’s all that remains.” We laugh dismissively but Jerry remains insistent, deadpan, continuing his grisly tale. “The villagers didn’t know what shoes were, they thought they were part of a white man’s body,” he says. “So when they killed this reverend they tried to eat his shoes too.” Sure enough, the legend appears to be true. A quick Google that evening of ‘cannibal’, ‘Fiji’ and ‘boiled shoe’ turns up the legend of Thomas Baker, the Methodist missionary who was eaten by Fijians in 1867. Thankfully, 40
tntdownunder.com
96_FijiLF.indd 40
24/4/13 8:27:50 PM
Voluntouring in the Fiji Islands! “Amazing! Stunning location and it’s a fantastic feeling lending a hand where it’s needed. It was cool to work alongside the locals and get to see how our work directly benefited them. Top it all off with a drink on the beach!” Gemma, Sydney, NSW
Explore, adventure and lend a hand voluntouring in the Fiji islands from one week or more.
Support manta-ray protection
Lend a hand with specialist global interest groups to protect manta-rays and marine life. Take part in the marine conservation programme.
Maintain water harvesting systems
Lunch is served
Make a difference by constructing and repairing water harvesting systems; and educating villagers on water conservation. Take part in the sustainable communities programme.
Support teachers in an island school
Alongside teachers, help children aged 3 to 13 with sport, play and extra curricular activities. Take part in the children & schools education programme.
Do something more with your vacation... If a holiday in the Fiji Islands, combined with lending a helping hand to people in need sounds like you, book a Vinaka Fiji Volunteering programme, it will be the highlight of your year.
AAF3982
For full details of holiday & volunteering programmes, accommodation and activities visit our website or facebook. com/vinakafiji or call +679 675 0500
GI VE BA CK , LAY BA CK volunteer@vinakafiji.org.fj
AAF3982 TNT NZ - FIJI HalfPg.indd 1
96_FijiLF.indd 41
vinakafiji.org.fj
tntdownunder.com
41
26/3/13 12:55:34 PM
24/4/13 8:28:07 PM
“
Nothing like a tale of human flesh-eating to get you in the mood
”
time, my knees are well and truly covered. Outside the chief’s bure, a woman gives me her address so I can send her the photos of the locals. She puts the piece of paper in my hand and wraps her hands around mine as I promise to fulfill her wish. “God bless you,” she says before I get back on the bus. That evening, we stay at the four-star Uprising Beach Resort with traditional Fijian bures that have all the
cannibalism has died out due to the acceptance of Christianity. But hey, there’s nothing like a tale of human flesh-eating to get you in the mood for lunch. Several bowls of kava later, we are presented with a smorgasbord of Fijian food. There’s an array of fruit, seafood, chicken and lots of taro on offer. Samuel tells us to get our cameras ready. “Please, take photos, it shows your respect,” he says. “And show your friends at home all the wonderful food the ladies have prepared.” They look so proud of their bounty of food, fanning it profusely to keep the flies away. After we sit on the floor to eat, we realise that no one else has helped themselves to food. Instead, the 30 or so villagers watch us with eager eyes as we dive into lunch. I cannot help but feel guilty as they smile, deriving such obvious pleasure from watching us eat. The root of evil Unaware of what it is when first picking it up, I end up with exceedingly too much taro on my plate. It’s a root vegetable that’s tasteless and dry but I devour every piece of it with a smile on my face, not wanting to disrespect anyone – not after the sarong incident. After the girl next to me can’t get through her plate of food and puts it aside, I decide to finish hers off too. More smiles from the locals come my way. This
42
All hail the chief
tntdownunder.com
96_FijiLF.indd 42
24/4/13 8:28:53 PM
modern, luxurious finishes. We gather around the pool, wearing very little clothing and taking photos of each other jumping into the pool that overlooks the Pacific Harbour. Jerry has had a few too many beers and has just discovered planking. Although he’s a little behind the times, he’s hundreds of years ahead of the villagers. Jerry has Facebook and keeps pestering us to add him so we can upload the shots. “There’s free Wifi here, do it now,” he begs. We order some more pineapple daiquiris and flick through our phones, enjoying the last light of the sun as it sets over the ocean. Back in Australia it’s a few weeks before I manage to get the photos of the villagers printed and sent off to the Nausori Village. Unable to forget their warmth and hospitality, I hope the photos arrive but it soon dawns on me that I’ll never know either way. I suppose I’ll just have to have a little faith in the Fijian postal service. ❚
ask the expert Selina McGowan is a sales executive for Awesome Adventures Fiji
When is the best time of year to visit Fiji? Fiji is a great destination year round, but is most popular between May to October as the weather is warm and sunny but without the summer humidity and rainfall. Some mainland and Mamanuca resorts may alter their pricing to reflect the seasons, but in the Yasawas, it’s one price all year. What makes Fiji so special? The Fijian people, with their big smiles, big ‘bulas’ and their warm hearts, are what always draws people to return. Family is the number one priority in Fiji and as a visitor you feel like a part of their family.
Alex Harmon travelled with Feejee Experience Hop-On-Hop-Off bus.
feejeeexperience.com
So it’s worth the money? Fiji can sometimes be seen to be expensive, especially for food and drinks on the mainland, but you always have options. On the islands, most resorts offer half board or full board meal plans so you know exactly what you are paying before you arrive. Why are the Yasawas/Mamanucas so good for backpackers? Fiji is the only Pacific Island that can offer a `hop-on, hop-off` service around the islands with such ease and for such good value for money. Backpackers can get to experience a range of islands, resorts and activities and can customise their holidays to fit in with the budget they have. How long do you recommend spending on each island? A minimum two nights per resort. If you were to turn up one day and leave the next it is hard to get a real feel for the resort, the staff and to explore the beautiful surroundings. Is there much to do, besides lying on the beach? The diving is amazing so a lot of properties have dive centres on them. During manta ray season (May to October) at certain resorts you can see them feed – an amazing lifetime experience that people travel from around the world to do. A visit to the Sawa-i-Lau Caves is a must when in the Blue Lagoon region. Otherwise, you can also participate in village visits, walks, kayaking and fishing. tntdownunder.com
96_FijiLF.indd 43
43
24/4/13 8:29:09 PM
bareessentials
Wellington
banks
CHECK IN!
Nationwide banks like Westpac, ANZ and Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) have the most branches and, if you are planning on spending a long period of time here, issue cards for use at ATMs (cashpoints).
Air New Zealand 0800 737 000, Soundsair Wellington 0800 505 005 03 520 3080
Changing money
insurance
You can change money at any bank. American Express, Visa, Mastercard and Thomas Cook travellers’ cheques are all widely recognised. Banks will give cash advances on Visa and Mastercard credit cards but for American Express you must go to a designated Amex office. Foreign exchange is available for all international flights at airports.
Downunder Worldwide Travel Insurance 09 376 8292, dunder@internet.co.nz
visa loft 109 backpackers 109 Devonport Rd. Dorms from $28 Nice central location with a super-relaxed vibe. Owners are nice and friendly. Discount for your room if you pay for a week in advance.
health Auckland Metro Doctors Travelcare
For accident and medical care and all international travel vaccines. Pharmacy, X-ray and laboratory. Open six days. BNZ Tower, cnr 125 Queen & Swanson Sts, Auckland, 09 373 4621, Email: doctor@ travelcareMD.com TMVC For all your medical needs. Christchurch, 03 379 4000
post Post Offices are open 9am-5pm on weekdays. Mail can be sent to ‘Poste Restante, CPO’ in the relevant city. CPO stands for Chief Post Office. Mail will be held for 30 days. Delivery time is two days between major centres, a bit longer for rural areas.
follow us on
BOOK NOW!
Tauranga
loft109.co.nz
phones Pay phones in NZ are usually of the card variety and phone cards are available in values of $5, $10, $20 and $50. The country dial code for New Zealand is 64. Directory assistance 018 International operator: 0170 (reversed charges) Emergency (Fire, ambulance, police): 111 Compass communications Kia Ora cards. Prepaid calling card kiaoracard.co.nz
Country & area codes New Zealand 64; Auckland 09; Northland 09; Rotorua/Taupo 07; Wellington 04; South Island 03 Directory service International: 0172
dom airlines Auckland Air New Zealand 0800 737 000, 09 357 3000 Great Barrier 09 275 9120
The type of visa you will need to enter NZ is determined by how long you want to stay and what you want to do while you’re there. If you are only entering New Zealand as a tourist you may need a visa depending on what country you are from. If you intend to work while you are in New Zealand you can apply for one online, once you’re here. Citizens of many countries can get a 23-month Working Holiday visa. immigration.govt.nz Visitor’s Visas Citizens of a number of countries do not require visas if they are visiting NZ for three months or less. On arrival, all visitors must be in possession of a valid ticket or enough funds to purchase a ticket out of NZ to a country they have the right of entry to, ie: you must already hold a visa for that country if one is required – you cannot expect to get the visa once you are in New Zealand. Your passport must be valid for three months beyond when you expect to leave NZ, and
@tnt_downunder you must also have sufficient money (NZ$1000 for each month of your visit) to support yourself during your stay. If you wish to stay longer than three months, you should apply for a Visitor’s Visa (which will allow you to stay in NZ for up to nine months) before you arrive in New Zealand, although British passport holders on arrival in NZ may be issued a permit valid for a stay of up to six months. Extensions If you like New Zealand and decide you’d like to stay here longer you may extend your stay to a maximum of nine months in an 18 month period. To do this you need to apply for a further visitor permit. You can apply for these permits online immigration. govt.nz. If you do need to apply in person, New Zealand Immigration Service offices are located in Auckland, Hamilton, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin. The Auckland office is very busy and you may experience long delays when applying there. When applying, you need to show your outward ticket or prove your ability to purchase such a ticket; your current passport, a recent passport-sized photo and evidence that you still have sufficient funds to support yourself. If you do not have the required funds, you will need a guarantee of accommodation and maintenance from a NZ friend or relative who is willing to be your sponsor.
Photo: Tourism New Zealand
CHECK OUT
44
Fox glacier While smaller and quieter than its big brother, Franz Josef, Fox Glacier is still a mighty impressive sight to behold. While you can walk almost up to the bottom of the glacier, it is highly recommended that you take a half-day hike to get onto Fox itself. After a short hike through the humid jungle you’ll emerge in front of the frozen landscape that you’ll soon be (literally) carving a pathway across. The glacier is constantly expanding and contracting so each day the guides must cut new steps up the side. The view to the icy wasteland is foreboding and even more intimidating when you learn that no one has ever climbed all the way to the top. Take a deep breath, as you might never again breathe air this crisp and clean.
tntDOWNUNDER.com
03_NZ96 44-44 ESS.indd 44
23/4/13 11:53:30 PM
like us on
gettingAROUND
facebook/tnt downunder
buses & tours Atomic Shuttles South Island buses. 03 349 0697, atomictravel.co.nz Bottom Bus Far south tours. 03 477 9083, bottombus.co.nz
rental firms Ace Rental Cars 0800 502 277, acerentalcars.com.nz Apex Car Rentals 0800 939 597 , apexrentals.co.nz
Spaceships 0800 772 237, spaceshipsrentals.co.nz
United Campervans 09 275 9919, unitedcampervans.co.nz
Flexi-Pass Combines InterCity and Newmans. 0800 222 146, flexipass.co.nz
Mighty Cars and Campers (Formerly Backpacker Campervan & Car Rentals) 0800 081 026 mightycampers.co.nz
Wicked Campers 0800 246 870, wickedcampers.co.nz
Flying Kiwi Wilderness Expeditions 0800 693 296, flyingkiwi.com
Bargain Rental Cars 0800 001 122, bargainrentals.co.nz
Air New Zealand 1800 737 000, airnewzealand.co.nz
Darn Cheap Rentals 0800 800 327, dcrentals.co.nz
Air Pacific Fiji flights 0800 800 178, airpacific.com
Econo Campers 09 275 9919, econocampers.co.nz
Emirates 050 836 4728, emirates.com
Escape Rentals 0800 216 171, escaperentals.co.nz
Jetstar 0800 800 995,
Kiwi Experience 09 336 4286 kiwiexperience.com Magic Travellers Network 09 358 5600, magicbus.co.nz Nakedbus.com 0900 62533, nakedbus.com
Jucy Rentals 0800 399 736, jucy.co.nz
NZ Travelpass 0800 339 966, travelpass.co.nz
Nationwide Rental Cars 0800 803 003, nationwiderentalcars.co.nz
Stray 09 526 2140, straytravel.com
Pegasus Rental Cars 0800 803 580, rentalcars.co.nz
West Coast Shuttle Greymouth to Christchurch buses. 03 768 0028, westcoastshuttle.co.nz
Rent-A-Dent 0800 736 823, rentadent.co.nz Rental Car Village 09 376 9935, hire-vehicles.co.nz
MT091 NZ_TNT_Horiz175x122_Jan2013.indd 1
04_NZ96 45-46 GA .indd 45
WHEEL DEAL!
Standby Cars 0800 789 059, standbycars.co.nz
airlines
jetstar.com
Qantas 0800 808 767, qantas.com.au Virgin Australia 0800 670 000, virginaustralia.com Webjet Flights comparison website. webjet.com.au
ferries Interislander Linking Wellington and Picton. 0800 802 802, interislander.co.nz
CYCLING NEW ZEALAND New Zealand is an ideal destination for touring cyclists, not just for the beautiful scenery but also the new extensive cycle trail networks across the country. About $80 million has been invested in the development of these trails and in the future will hopefully allow exploration of the whole country. The current gaps can still be filled by the existing roads, which are in pretty good condition, or by public transport for an extra fee. Time your visit right and the weather will be perfect for cycling. With cheap and comfortable accommdation, even the toughest days will end in a warm, comfortable bed. For the very bold, try combining your cycling trip with camping for the cheapest, zero carbon footprint trip that New Zealand can offer. There really is no purer way to enjoy the wild kiwi scenery than by bicycle, so make a plan, grab your helmet and get out there.
tntdownunder.com 15/01/13 3:29 PM 45
24/4/13 8:30:06 PM
Fed up of carrying around heavy guidebooks? Then TNT has the answer tnt do wn un de r.co
We’ve published our 2013 Independent Traveller’s Guide to Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. It’s free, it’s online and it’s full of tips on where to go, what to do and how to find work.
m
FIJI W ZEALAND & AUSTRALIA, NE
It’s also got listings for all the best hostels, tour companies and job agencies for all three countries, complete with links that will take you straight to their websites.
NT THE INDEPENDE
If you’re travelling on, there’s also sections on Papua New Guinea and Samoa.
ZEALAND & FI AUSTRALIA, NEW
To check it out, just head to tntdownunder.com and click the link on the right hand side.
UIDE TRAVELLERS' G JI
2013
A Product UK £9.95 WHERE SOLD
tntdownunder.com
ITG fillerFP.indd 1 .indd 46 04_NZ96 45-46 GA
24/04/13 8:37 PM PM 24/4/13 8:38:32
like us on
northisland
facebook/tntdownunder
auckland
i-SITE Auckland Atrium, skycity, Cnr Federal & Victoria Sts
Base Travel Level 3, 229 Queen St, 09 358 4874, basetravel.com i-SITE Visitor Information 287 Queen St, 09 979 2333, reservations@aucklandnz.com Ferry Tickets Online (For inter-island ferry services) 39 Beach Rd, 0800 500 660, ferrytickets.co.nz Parks Information Centre Details on tramping, camping grounds, the Gulf Islands and exploring the regional parks. 21 Pitt St, open Mon-Fri, 09 366 2000 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 Auckland InterCity Travel Centre Buses around Auckland and the rest of New Zealand leave from here. Located beside the casino, Hobson St, 09 623 1503 Train Intercity trains arrive and depart from Britomart, 12 Queen St, Auckland. 09 270 5211
auckland stay
Photo: Tourism New Zealand, Arno Gasteiger
Airport Skyway Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 30 Kirkbride Road, Mangere. 09 275 4443, skywaylodge.co.nz Albert Park Backpackers (VIP) 27-31 Victoria St East. 09 309 0336, bakpak@albertpark.co.nz
CHECK IN! Oaklands lodge 5a Oaklands Rd, Auckland. Dorms from $23 A bright, leafy hostel right in the heart of Mt. Eden village. Great kitchen, laundry and wifi throughout the house. Mt Eden, Auckland
Central City Backpackers 26 Lorne St. 09 358 5685, backpacker.net.nz City Garden Lodge 25 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell. 09 302 0880 City Groove Backpackers (BBH) 6 Constitutional Hill, Parnell. 09 303 4768, bed@backpackersco.nz
Queen Street Backpackers (VIP) 4 Fort St. 09 373 3471, enquiries@qsb.co.nz Uenuku Lodge (BBH) 217 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby. 09 378 8990 Surf ‘n’ Snow Backpackers 102 Albert St. 09 363 8889, surfandsnow.co.nz The Brown Kiwi (BBH) 7 Prosford St, Ponsonby. 09 378 0191, brownkiwi.co.nz
Kiwi International Queen St Hotel and Hostel 411 Queen St. 0800 100 411, kiwihotel.co.nz
Verandahs (BBH) 6 Hopetown St. 09 360 4180
Kiwi International Airport 150 McKenzie Road, Mangere. 0800 801 919, kiwiairport@xtra.co.nz Lantana Lodge (BBH) 60 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell. 09 373 4546, lantana@xtra.co.nz The Fat Camel (Nomads) 38 Fort St. 09 307 0181, nomadshostels.com New Zealand Backpackers 8 Nixon St, Ponsonby. 09 376 3871, ajlodge@xtra.co.nz Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort St. 09 300 9999, nomadshostels.com
Base Auckland 229 Queen St. 0800 227 369, stayatbase.com
Pentlands (BBH) 22 Pentland Ave, Mt Eden. +64 9638 7031
BK Hostel (BBH)
Princeton Backpackers 30 Symonds St. 09 963 8300, nigel@princeton.co.uk
Georgia Parkside Backpackers 189 Park Rd, Grafton. 09 309 8999, bacpacgeorgia@xtra.co.nz
Oaklands Lodge (BBH) 5A Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden. 09 638 6545, oaklands.co.nz
Bamber House (BBH) 22 View Rd, Mt Eden. 09 623 4267, hostelbackpacker.com
oaklands.co.nz
3 Mercury Ln, Central. 09 307 0052, bkhostel.co.nz
Auckland International Backpackers (BBH) 2 Churton St, Parnell. +64358 4584,
Ponsonby Backpackers (BBH) 2 Franklin Rd, Ponsonby. 09 360 1311, info@ponsonby-backpackers.co.nz
09 367 9111.
Auckland Zoo See kiwi birds in the nocturnal house and over 900 animals. 09 360 3800, aucklandzoo.co.nz
Auckland Bridge Climb Up and over the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Westhaven Reserve, Curran St, Herne Bay, 0800 286 4958, ajhackett.com
Pride of Auckland The Pride of Auckland operates an impressive fleet of large, purpose-built yachts on the sheltered waters of Auckland’s Auckland Museum Waitemata Harbour and is See the world’s finest collection world famous for its sailing and of Maori and Pacific Island dining cruises. Join them for a artefacts. Explore New coffee, lunch, dinner, Waiheke Zealand’s natural history, sailing experience cruise or a discover the largest bird that full-day sailing adventure and ever lived and experience a experience the “City of Sails” Maori cultural show. for what it is known for. 09 306 7067, 0800 397 567, aucklandmuseum.com explorenz.co.nz
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.
Backpackers World Travel 16-20 Fort St, 09 379 4126, backpackersworld.com
enjoy the action as you sail the beautiful Waitemata Harbour. The two hour sails departs daily from the Auckland Viaduct. No experience necessary. 0800 397 567, explorenz.co.nz
Uenuku Lodge (BBH) 217 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby. 09 378 8990 YHA Auckland City Cnr City Rd & Liverpool St. 09 378 8990 YHA Auckland International 5 Turner St. 09 302 8200, yha.co.nz
auckland do Explorer Bus Sightseeing around Auckland, 0800 439 756 explorerbus.co.nz On the Road Tours and Charters Sightseeing bus tours of Auckland and the north shore. 0800 486 877, ontheroad.co.nz Harbour Ferries Ferries can take you all over the harbour. Info about timetables and destinations available at the Ferry Building on Quay St. 09 424 5561 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
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, 09 528 0603, 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, nzmaritime.org Ponsonby West of the city, explore Victorian architecture and narrow streets with cafés, bars, clothes shops, art galleries and some lively nightlife.
Auckland Harbour Bridge Jump NZ’s only ocean touch bungy, 40m high. Westhaven Reserve, Curran St, Herne Bay, 0800 286 4958, ajhackett.co.nz Canyonz Ltd Explore subtropical canyons and abseil down crashing waterfalls. 0800 422 696, canyonz.co.nz New Zealand Surf Tours 09 832 9622, 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. 09 368 1835, skywalk.co.nz Fullers Bay of Islands Tours One, two and three-day tours from Auckland. 09 358 0259, boitc.co.nz Awesome Adventures Three-day Bay of Islands tours. 0800 658 058, awesomenz.com Beaches Auckland is surrounded by great beaches, including Judges Bay, Kohimarama, Okahu Bay, St Heliers Bay and popular Mission Bay.
Queen Street Auckland’s main boulevard with shops, cafés and restaurants. Aotea Square Markets Every Friday and Saturday at Whale & Dolphin Safari Aotea Square, Queen St. NZ See whales and dolphins from fashion labels, retro gear, foods, Auckland’s doorstep. The Pacific-style crafts, jewellery Hauraki Gulf is considered one and furniture, of the most biologically and 09 309 2677, geographically diverse marine the-edge.co.nz parks in the world. See dolphins, whales, sea birds and/ Victoria Park Market or even penguins. Dolphins are 3km from the CBD, an outdoor viewed on over 90% and whales market with fruit, veggies, on 75% of trips. Departs daily books, clothes and handicrafts. from the Auckland Viaduct. Dolphin viewing guaranteed. 0800 397 567, explorenz.co.nz great barrier Fullers Cruises Inner harbour cruises and longer cruises to Hauraki Gulf islands, with all-day passes and hop-on, hop-off options.
The island is dominated by a native forest a network of criss-crossing tracks. greatbarrier.co.nz Orama Resort (YHA)
tntdownunder.com
05_NZ96 47-55 NI.indd 47
47
23/4/13 11:42:26 PM
northisland Karaka Bay Rd, 09 429 0063, yha.co.nz Stray Possum Lodge (VIP) 09 429 0109, straypossum@acb.co.nz
BOOK NOW!
09 402 6222, theparrot@paradise.net.nz
CHECK IN!
Saltwater Lodge (BBH) 14 Kings Rd, 0800 002 266, saltwaterlodge.co.nz YHA Paihia Cnr Kings and MacMurray Rds, Paihia, 09 402 7487, yha.co.nz
barrier do Fullers Cruises Depart from the Ferry Building. 09 367 9102
paihia do
Great Barrier Airlines Fly out of Auckland Airport or Auckland Shore Airfield. 0800 900 600, Fullers Great Barrier Explorers Cruise and tours, summer only (October-April). 09 367 9111
waiheke island A 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland. It is popular for its long sweeping beaches and craft shops. Hekerua Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 11 Hekerua Rd, Oneroa, 09 372 8990, hekerualodge.co.nz Waiheke Island Hostel Seaview Road, Onetangi, Ph: (09) 372 8971, waihekehostel.co.nz
northland The “winterless north” is Northland’s famous tag. The subtropical climate is good all year round and the area boasts some of the best beaches in NZ. Highlights include Ninety Mile Beach, Kerikeri and the beautiful Bay of Islands.
helensville The hot springs here have indoor and outdoor thermal pools and waterslides. Malolo House (BBH) 110 Commercial Rd, 09 420 7262, helensville.co.nz/malolo.htm
hibiscus coast Whangaparaoa Peninsula. A popular holiday spot, the peninsula offers water sport opportunities from windsurfing to boating. Busy in summer, this whole area is popular with bushwalkers. Hisbiscus Coast Visitor Info Hibiscus Coast Hwy, 09 426 0076. Marco Polo Backpackers Inn (BBH) 2d Hammond Ave, Hatfields Beach, 09 426 8455, marcopolo.co.nz
pakiri beach Famous for its white sand and isolation, there are several coastal walks here and gorgeous views.
waipu Come to Waiku for snorkelling, fishing and exploring the caves. The
48
follow us on
Haruru Falls Picturesque falls offering swimming, camping and kayaking opportunities – and a pub!
worldwide backpackers 291 The Terrace, Wellington. Dorms from $29 Set in a 110-year-old house, featuring free wi-fi and breakfast. Even hosts regular BBQs! Great chilled out vibe for a big city.
Wellington
worldwidenz.co.nz
Bream Bay Coast is a magnificent expanse of white sparkling sand just 30 mins drive from the city.
sail rock Hen & Chickens Island and Sail Rock These offshore areas offer great sailing and diving. Boat trips leave from the area daily. Waipu Wanderer (BBH) 25 St Marys Rd, 09 432 0532.
whangarei The waterfront has been developed in the style of the early settlers (except with cafés, restaurants and galleries) and Mount Parahaki towers 241m above the city. Stroll along enticing beaches and dive at Poor Knights Islands. one of the world’s top diving sites. Also pay a visit to petty Whangerei Falls. Whangarei I-SITE Visitor Centre 92 Otaika Rd, 09 438 1079
whangarei stay Bunkdown Lodge (BBH) 23 Otaika Road, 09 438 8886, bunkdownlodge.co.nz Coastal Cow Backpackers (BBH) 299 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai Heads, 09 431 5444, coastalcow@xtra.co.nz Little Earth Lodge (BBH) 85 Abbey Caves Road, 09 430 6562, littleearthlodge.co.nz Piano Hill Farm (BBH) Piano Hill, Kauri, 09 433 7090, thefarm.co.nz Whangarei Falls Backpackers (BBH) Ngunguru Road, Glenbervie, 09 437 0609, whangereifalls.co.nz YHA Whangarei, Manaakitanga 52 Punga Grove Ave, 09 438 8954, yha.co.nz
whangarei do Dive! Tutukaka Poor Knights Islands dives, plus tours with kayaking, cave explorations, snorkelling, swimming, sea mammal-spotting.
paihia Paihia is one of the most beautiful towns on the North Island with equal parts love for adventure, nature and a raucous nightlife. AwesomeNZ Tours include Maori mythology, dolphin swimming and fast boats. Maritime Building, on the waterfront, 0800 653 339, awesomenz.com Bay of Islands i-Site The Wharf, Marsden Rd, Freephone: 09 402 7345 Base Travel 18 Kings Rd, 09 402 7111, basetravel.com
paihia stay Base Pipi Patch 18 Kings Rd 09 402 7111, stayatbase.com Captain Bob’s Beachhouse (BBH) 44 Davis Cres, 09 402 8668, capnbobs@xtra.co.nz Centabay Lodge (BBH) 27 Selwyn Rd, 09 402 7466, centaby@xtra.co.nz Mayfair Lodge (BBH) 7 Puketona Rd, 09 402 7471, bay-of-islands.co.nz/accomm/ mayfair.html Mousetrap (BBH) 11 Kings Rd, 09 402 8182, info@mousetrap.co.nz Peppertree Lodge (BBH) 15 Kings Rd, 09 402 6122, peppertree.co.nz Pickled Parrot Backpackers (BBH) Grey’s Lane,
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, 09 403 7248 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, 09 402 7421 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 365 744, explorenz.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. 0800 365 744, explorenz.co.nz
@tnt_downunder Ultimate Day Sail in the Bay” Join Lion New Zealand, NZ’s most famous maxi yacht. Enjoy a fresh BBQ lunch and activities such as kayaking, snorkelling, natural walks at Otehei Bay or simply kick back and enjoy the island atmosphere. 0800 365 744, bayofislands@explorenz.co.nz Overnight Cruises The Rock 24-hour cruise featuring kayaking, snorkelling with stingrays, fishing for your dinner, dolphin spotting. 0800 762 527, rocktheboat.co.nz Awesome Cape Reinga Via Ninety Mile Beach – learn Maori myths and legends, navigate the quicksand stream, ride the dunes, visit a thousand year old forest. 0800 653 339, awesomenz.com
russell Catch a ferry to Russell, originally a sprawling fortified Maori settlement. Information Centre End of the Pier, 09 403 8020
russell stay The Coast Road Farm (BBH) Coast Rd, Whangaruru, 09 433 6894, thefarm.co.nz Ferry Landing (BBH) 395A Aucks Rd, Okiato Point, 09 403 7985, ferrylanding@clear.net.nz Wainui (BBH) 92D Te Wahapu Rd, 09 403 8278, stocked@xtra.co.nz
kerikeri 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. Dept of Conservation Office 09 407 8474
kerikeri stay Kerikeri Top 10 Holiday Park & Aranga Backpackers Aranga Drive off Kerikeri Rd, 09 407 9326, kerikeritop10.co.nz Hideaway Lodge Wiroa Rd, 0800 562 746 Hone Heke Lodge (BBH) 65 Hone Heke Rd, 09 407 8170, kerikeri.net/honeheke Kerikeri Farm Hostel (BBH) Ph: (09) 407 6989, kkfarmhostel@xtra.co.nz
nrth bay of isl
Excitor “Hole in the Rock” Adventure One-and-a-half hours, 0800 653 339, excitor.co.nz
i-Site Far North South Rd in Jaycee Park. 09 408 0879, kaitaiainfo@xtra.co.nz
Lion New Zealand – “The
Farm Backpackers (BBH)
tntDOWNUNDER.com
05_NZ96 47-55 NI.indd 48
23/4/13 11:42:43 PM
like us on
northisland
facebook/tntdownunder
End of Lamb Rd, Pukenui, 09 409 7863, farmbackpackers@xtra.co.nz
including free ticket to Kauri Museum. Devon Grove, Matakohe, 09 431 6007
CHECK IN!
North Wind Lodge Backpackers (BBH) Otaipango Rd, Henderson Bay, 09 409 8515, northwindlodge@xtra.co.nz
Waikato District Info Centre 160 Great South Rd, Huntly, 07 828 6406 Shekinah (BBH) 122 Pungapunga Rd, Pukekawa, 09 233 4464, shekinah@ps.gen.nz
matauri bay
The Welcome Swallow Backpackers Off Matauri Bay Road, 09 4051 019, welcomeswallow.com The Rainbow Warrior A monument to the noble but doomed Greenpeace ship, Rainbow Warrior, sits on the site of a Maori pa on the headland at Matauri Bay. Travellers come here to dive the ship’s wreck.
whangaroa This area was once well known for its Kauri forests, but these days it’s more about game fishing. The scenery is ruggedly spectacular and sailing cruises are popular.
hamilton
104 Tuwharetoa Street, Taupo. Dorms from $27 Fantastic hostel with incredible views over the lake and mountains beyond it. Decorated with Maori artwork and access to a spa pool.
Taupo
tikilodge.co.nz
mainstreet@xtra.co.nz
taipa A tiny village with a boat-dotted harbour. You can swim with dolphins, hire boats or kayaks, and swim at the beautiful Coopers Beach. Taipa is worth visiting for its pretty beach.
kaitaia The ideal starting point for Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach. Backpackers Heaven (VIP) Wagener Holiday Park, Houhora Heads, 09 409 8564, wagenerpark@xtra.co.nz Main Street Lodge (BBH) 235 Commerce St, 09 408 1275,
hamilton stay Colts n Fillies (BBH) 37 Smith Rd, Karamu, 07 825 9809, ktt.co.nz
Waitiki Landing Far North Rd, 09 409 7508
Hokianga Information 09 405 8869, hokiangainfo@xtra.co.nz
Forty Winks (BBH) 267 River Rd, Claudelands, 07 855 2033, forty_winks@ihug.co.nz
kaitaia do
Sunseeker Lodge (BBH) Old Hospital Rd, 09 405 0496, sunseekerlodge.co.nz
karikari penin
DOC Office Level 5, Rostrevor St.
hokianga
Pack or Paddle Thoms Landing, 09 4098 445, packorpaddle@hotmail.com
90 mile beach The west coast of the Far North Peninsula is Ninety Mile Beach,a beautiful strip of coastline that takes you way up to Cape Reinga.
ahipara This is the best spot for sandtobogganing, located at the south end of Ninety Mile Beach.
hokianga stay Okopako Lodge (BBH) 140 Mountain Rd, South Hokianga, 09 405 8815, Globe Trekkers Lodge (BBH) SH12, Omapere, 09 405 8183. Waitawa Farm Hostel (BBH) 164 Pukemiro Rd, 09 409 5809, valleyfarm@xtra.co.nz
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.
Rural town famous for being turned into Hobbiton in those films – some of the set still stands.
dargaville stay Dargaville Holiday Park (VIP) 10 Onslow St, 09 439 8296, dargavilleholidaypark@xtra.co.nz
Farm Backpackers (BBH) End of Lamb Rd, Pukenui, 09 409 7863 farmbackpackers@xtra.co.nz
Kaihu Farm (BBH) RD6, Kaihu, 09 439 4004, kaihufarm@clear.net.nz
ahipara do Tuatua Tours Guided quad tours of Ninety Mile Beach sand dunes. 3 Main Road, 0800 494 288, tuatuatours.co.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
YHA Ahipara Backpackers & Motor Camp 168-170 Takehe St, 09 409 4864, yha.co.nz
Endless Summer Lodge (BBH) 245 Foreshore Rd, 09 409 4181, endlesssummer.co.nz
J’s Backpackers (BBH) 8 Grey Street, 07 856 8934, jsbackpackers.co.nz
dargaville
Dargaville Info Centre 61 Normanby St, 09 439 8360.
The Greenhouse Hostel (BBH) 13 Portland St, 09 439 6342, m.stevens@clear.net.nz
matakohe Travellers Lodge (BBH) 64 Jellicoe Rd, Ruawai, 09 439 2283 Kauri Country Northland 3hr 4WD eco-adventures,
Karioi Backpacker Lodge (VIP, BBH) & Raglan Surfing School 5 Whaanga Rd, Whale Bay, 07 825 7873, karioilodge.co.nz Solcape Accommodation Centre (BBH) 611 Wainui Rd, 07 825 8268 Waikatoa Beach Lodge (BBH) 8 Centreway Rd, Sunset Beach, Port Waikato, 09 232 9961, sunsetbeach.co.nz
te awamutu
Heading south, you’ll hit Hokianga Harbour and the quiet twin towns of Omapere and Opononi. The Koutu Boulders are worth a look.
Far North Regional Museum Featuring all kinds of goodies, like the skeleton of a giant moa bird and salvages from local shipwrecks.
The Rusty Anchor (BBH) 1 Tokerau Beach Rd, 09 406 7141, info@rustyanchor.co.nz
Hamilton Visitor Centre 5 Garden Place, Hamilton 07 958 5960 visithamilton.co.nz
Pukenui Lodge (YHA) Corner Wharf Rd & State Hwy 1, Houhora, 09 409 8837, yha.co.nz
Tourist info centre Boyd Gallery, 09 405 0230.
Less touristy than the Bay of Islands, the area around Doubtless is made up of tiny bays and coves, beach resorts and historical villages.
Hamilton is NZ’s largest inland city and is known for its parks and gardens.
tiki lodge
Ancient Kauri Kingdom Giant kauri tree stumps are fashioned into furniture and other trinkets.
doubtless bay
Raglan Backpackers & Waterfront Lodge (BBH) 6 Wi Neera St, 07 825 0515, raglanbackpackers.co.nz
waikato
Pukenui Lodge Hostel (BBH) Cnr SH1 & Wharf Rd, Pukenui, 09 4098837, stay@pukenuilodge.co.nz
A very well-kept tourist secret, Matauri Bay is Maori land, home to the Ngati Kura people, and has beautiful, quiet beaches.
2458 State Highway 22, Glen Murray, 09 233 3144, glenmurray.net
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. Te Awamutu District Museum 135 Roche St. 07 872 0085
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.
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 26 Maniapoto St, otorohanga.co.nz
waitomo
Hobbiton Backpackers 81 Arawa St, 07 888 9972, steve@hobbitonbackpackers.co.nz
Definitely one of the best adventure spots in New Zealand. There are a range of caving adventures, from glowworm ogling, to long dramatic abseils deep towards the centre of cambridge the earth and excellent blackwater This very Olde English town with its rafting (jump in an inner tube and let the underwater current carry town square and abundance of trees is in the heart of Waikato. The you). region is famous for its horses and Waitomo Caves Discovery jetboating. Centre 21 Waitomo Caves Rd, Cambridge Tourist Info Centre Cnr Queen and Victoria Sts, 07 823 3456
waitomo stay
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 0556
Juno Hall (BBH) 07 878 7649 Kiwipaka School Rd, 07 878 3395 Rap Raft & Rock Backpackers (BBH) 95 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 873 9149, rapraftnrock@xtra.co.nz
raglan stay Ewe Dream’Inn (BBH)
0800 474 839. waitomodiscovery.org
waitomo do
tntdownunder.com
05_NZ96 47-55 NI.indd 49
49
23/4/13 11:43:00 PM
northisland Dundle Hill Walk A two-day walk through native bush; limestone outcrops includes overnight with spectacular views at Kays Cabin. 0800 924 866 Marakopa Falls, Managapohue Natural Bridge and Piri Piri Cave, 30 minutes drive from Waitomo. Rap Raft ‘n’ Rock Blackwater adventures combining abseiling, rafting, glowworms, caving and rockclimbing all in one five-hour adventure. 0800 228 372, caveraft.com The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co Cave tubing in the blackness of the Ruakuri Cave river. 585 Waitomo Caves Rd, 0800 228 464, blackwaterrafting.co.nz
Dept of Conservation 78 Taupiri Street, 07 878 1080. Tiffany’s Tearooms, Rora St, 07 878 7640
te kuiti stay Casara Mesa Backpackers (BBH) Mangarino Rd, 07 878 6697, casara@xtra.co.nz
king country The King Country is the region south of the Waikato and the Maori influence has remained strong with the opportunity to experience Maoritanga (the Maori way).
coromandel pen
BOOK NOW! Canyonz Ltd 0800 422 696, canyonz.co.nz
thames stay Dickson Holiday Park Victoria St, 07 868 7308, Gateway Backpackers (BBH) 209 Mackay St, 07 868 6339, gatewayb@wave.co.nz The Sunkist International Backpackers (BBH, VIP, YHA) 506 Brown St, 07 868 8808, sunkist@xtra.co.nz Te Aroha YHA Hostel Miro Street, Te Aroha (south of Thames), 07 884 8739, yha.co.nz
forest park
Woodlyn Park Pioneer Show, caving adventure, and quirky accommodation in a 1950s train carriage. Waitomo Valley Road, 07 878 6666.
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.
te kuiti
thames
Located 19km south of Otorohanga, Te Kuiti is known as “The Shearing Capital of the World”. There’s also a magnificent Maori marae (meeting house) here.
A great canyoning spot, with loads of natural pools and waterslides. Information Thames 206 Poland St, 07 868 7284
Some 55km north of Thames is the town of Coromandel, home to the popular Driving Creek Railway.
Te Kuiti Information Centre Rora St, 07 878 8077.
DOC Office 07 868 6381
Coromandel Information Centre Kapanga Rd, 07 866 8598.
There are heaps of walks to choose from. The Colville Range is the most popular but the Department of Conservation in the Kauaeranga Valley is the place to begin.
coromandel
MUST-VISIT
follow us on
coro stay Anchor Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 448 Wharf Rd, 07 866 7992, anchorlodgecoromandel.co.nz Black Jack Backpackers (BBH) Kuaotunu, 07 866 2988, black-jack.co.nz Colville Farm (BBH) 2140 Colville Road, Colville, 07 866 6820 Coromandel Town Backpackers (BBH) 732 Rings Road, 07 866 8830 Lions Den (BBH) 126 Te Tiki St, 07 866 8157
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 Backpackers Hostel (BBH) 227 Beverley Tce, 07 865 8323
whitianga Whitianga, perched on pretty Mercury Bay, is the most popular stop-off point for travellers on the Coromandel. You can learn to make your very own bone carving, dive and surf to your heart’s content. Whitianga Information Centre 66 Albert St, 07 866 5555
Photo: TNT Images
50
On the Beach Backpackers Lodge (BBH, YHA) 46 Buffalo Beach Rd, 07 866 5380, yha.co.nz Seabreeze Tourist Park (BBH) 1043 SH25 Tairua-Whitianga Rd, 07 866 3050 Tatahi Lodge (BBH) Grange Rd, Hahei, 07 866 3992, dreamland.co.nz/tatahilodge
whitianga do
Hot Water Beach & Cathedral Cove Rated as one of the world’s 10 best beaches, Hot Water Beach is an unusual Tui Lodge (BBH) phenomenon. For two hours 60 Whangapoua Rd, 07 866 8237, either side of low tide you can tuilodge@paradise.net.nz dig a hole in the sand and sit in your very own thermal spa pool.
Southpacific Accommodation (BBH) Cnr Port Rd and Mayfair Avenue, 07 865 9580, thesouthpacific.co.nz
Bay of Plenty is the holiday destination for most North Islanders, so you can take that as a ringing endorsement. Beautiful beaches, from Mt. Maunganui to Ohiwa Beach, you’ll find a mixture of surfing, sunbathing and New Zealand’s most active volcano: Whakaari (White Island). Boat and helicopter trips are available from Whakatane, Rotorua and Tauranga if you feel the need to witness the volcano up close. Tamer (and cheaper) options on the hit list include a trip up to the top of Mauao (Mt. Maunganui), boasting fantastic views of the beaches and nearby Rangiwaea and Watakana Islands. If you’re here to learn to surf you won’t be disappointed, as The Mount is claimed to be New Zealand’s primo surfing city!
Fernbird (BBH) 24 Harsant Ave, Hahei, 07 866 3080, fernbird@xtra.co.nz
Tidewater Tourist Park (YHA) 270 Tiki Rd, 07 866 8888, yha.co.nz
Whangamata Info Centre 616 Port Rd, 07 865 8340
Bay of plenty
@tnt_downunder
Baywatch Backpackers (VIP) 22 The Esplanade, 07 866 5481, anchorage@ihug.co.nz Cathedral Cove Lodge Villas (VIP) 41 Harsant Ave, Hahei Beach, 07 866 3889. Cat’s Pyjamas Backpackers (BBH) 12 Albert St, 07 866 4663.
bay of plenty The Bay of Plenty, extending from the Coromandel Peninsula to the East Cape, was named by Captain Cook in honour of both the fertile nature of the region and the friendly local Maoris he encountered. Activities include paragliding, sky diving, white water rafting, 4WD safaris, gliding, jet boating and swimming with dolphins.
tauranga One of the fastest growing places in NZ, Tauranga combines a young population with a harbourside atmosphere. Enjoy diving, sailing, fishing and surfing. Tauranga i-site 95 Willow St, 07 578 8103 Department of Conservation 253 Chadwick Rd West, 07 578 7677
tauranga stay Appletree Cottage 47 Maxwell Rd, 07 5767404, appletreebackpackers @hotmail.com Bell Lodge (BBH) 39 Bell St, 07 578 6344, bell-lodge.co.nz Harbourside City Backpackers (BBH) 105 The Strand, 07 579 4066, backpacktauranga.co.nz Just The Ducks Nuts Backpackers (BBH) 6 Vale St, 07 576 1366, justtheducksnuts.co.nz Loft 109 (BBH) 8/109 Devonport Rd, 07 579 5638,
loft109.co.nz
Tuaranga Central Backpackers 64 Willow St, 07 571 6222, tgabackpack.co.nz
tntDOWNUNDER.com
05_NZ96 47-55 NI.indd 50
23/4/13 11:43:21 PM
Become part of the legend with New Zealand’s original Black Water Rafting company. Experience the exhilarating world of ancient caves, rivers, waterfalls and breath taking glowworms. Climb, leap and float with the Black Labyrinth or descend into the black, bottomless depths with the ultimate caving tour, the Black Abyss. Or try our newest adventure, the Black Odyssey, a caving and high wire ropes tour, that will push you to the limit.
NEW!
BOOK NOW! 0800 228 464 +64 7 878 6219 www.waitomo.com
WAI260_BWR TNT NZ_Half Page_April2013.indd 1
24/04/13 5:23 PM
Check out TNT online for the latest news, gossip, gigs, bizarre headlines and awesome features
? T N T E R O M T N A W
TRAVEL FEATURES & STORIES...
JOBS, JOBS & MORE JOBS...
COMPETITIONS & TRAVEL OFFERS...
NEWS & REVIEWS
tntdownunder.com tntdownunder.com
05_NZ96 47-55 NI.indd 51
51
29/4/13 1:58:11 PM
northisland YHA Tauranga 171 Elizabeth St, 07 578 5064, yha.co.nz
tauranga do Butlers Swim With Dolphins 0508 288 537 Waimarino Adventure Park 07 576 4233 Coyote Bar and Restaurant 107 The Strand, 07 578 8968, coyotes.com
mt maunganui Home to Ocean Beach which, at 15km long, is considered by locals to be among the finest surfing in the country. The town stands at the foot of Mt Maunganui, a slab of rock 232m high, around which you can appreciate stunning views. Mt Maunganui Visitor Centre Salisbury Ave, 07 575 5099 Te Puke Information Centre 130 Jellicoe St, 07 573 9172
maunga stay Hairy Berry Backpackers (BBH) 2 No One Rd, Te Puke, 07 573 8015, work@hairyberrynz.com Mount Backpackers (BBH) 87 Maunganui Rd, 07 575 0860, mountbackpackers.co.nz Pacific Coast Backpackers (BBH) 432 Maunganui Rd, 0800 666 622, pacificcoastlodge.co.nz
maunga do Kiwifruit Country Young Rd, Te Puke, 07 573 6340, kiwifruitcountry.co.nz Te Puke Vintage Auto Barn, 26 Young Rd, 07 573 6547
whakatane For a very different adventure, visit White Island, an active volcano where sulphur-lipped fumeroles and roaring steam vents create a stark wonderland. Karibu Backpackers (BBH) 13 Landing Rd, 07 307 8276 Lloyds Lodge (BBH) 10 Domain Rd, 07 307 8005 The Windsor (BBH) 10 Merritt St, Whakatane, 07 308 8040, whaka_bpack@xtra.co.nz
Rotorua is a must for three reasons: the abundance of accessible Maori culture, the steaming volcanic scenery and adrenalin thrills. Visit the bubbling mud at Whaka, take a dip in a thermal bath and pig out on a hangi at a Maori concert. Even the air here is special – it’s heavy with sulphur. You’ll smell it the moment you arrive. Tourism Rotorua & Visitor Info Centre 1167 Fenton St, 07 348 5179
rotorua stay Base Rotorua 1286 Arawa St, 0800 227 369, stayatbase.com Cactus Jack Backpackers (BBH) 1210 Haupapa St, 07 348 3121, cactusjackbp@xtra.co.nz Crank Backpackers 1140 Hinemoa St, 07 348 0852, crankbackpackers.co.nz Crash Palace Backpackers (BBH, VIP) 1271 Hinemaru St, 07 348 8842, info@crashpalace.co.nz Planet Nomad Backpackers (VIP) 1193 Fenton St, 07 346 2831, downtown-rotorua@xtra.co.nz Rotorua Central Backpackers (BBH) 1076 Pukuatua St, 07 349 3285, rcbenquiry@slingshot.co.nz Spa Lodge (BBH) 1221 Amohau St, 07 348 3486, spalodge@wave.co.nz
rotorua do Agroventures Five adrenalin activities in one adventure park, including bungy jumping, sprint boats and a wind tunnel. 1335 Paradise Valley Rd. 07 357 4747, agroventures.co.nz Hell’s Gate Mud baths to heal and stimulate your body 07 345 3151 Kaitiaki Adventures Extreme whitewater activities. Sledging and rafting trips on the Kaituna and Rangitaiki Rivers, 0800 338 736, kaitiaki.co.nz NZONE Skydive Skydive from 15,000ft over Rotorua, 07 345 7250, nzone.biz Off Road NZ Sprint car racing, Monster 4X4, 4WD Bush Safari and more. 07 332 5748, offroadnz.co.nz
Dive White 168 The Strand, 0800 348 394, divewhite.co.nz
Polynesian Spa Historical hot mineral water bathing spa on the edge of Lake Rotorua. 07 348 1328, info@polynesianspa.co.nz
White Island Tours Departs Whakatane daily. 0800 733 529
Raftabout Whitewater rafting and sledging. 0800 723 822,
whakatane do
52
rotorua
BOOK NOW! 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. 07 333 1861 Waimangu Volcanic Valley The location of the Pink and White Terraces which were destroyed in the 1886 volcanic eruption. Wet ‘n’ Wild Rafting Guided rafting options on five different rivers – the Wairoa, Rangitaiki, Kaituna, Motu and Mohaka. 0800 462 7238, wetnwildrafting.co.nz Zorbing Get harnessed inside the perspex Zorb before rolling head-over-heels downhill. 07 357 5100, zorb.com
maori culture 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 nzmaori.co.nz. to begin . NZ Maori Arts & Crafts Institute 07 348 9047 Rotoiti Tours 0800 476 864 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
maoriculture.co.nz Whakarewarewa Thermal Village Maori village set amidst a landscape of geothermal wonders. Take a guided tour, see a cultural performance, check out Maori art. 07 349 3463, whakarewarewa.com
lake taupo Lake Taupo used to be a hidden gem, but nowadays it’s the place to visit in the North Island, thanks to its wicked mix of adrenalin adventures, sedate lake life and after-dark partying. Taupo Visitor Centre 30 Tongariro St, 07 376 0027 laketauponz.com
taupo stay Berkenhoff Lodge (BBH) 75 Scannell St, 07 378 4909,
follow us on bhoff@reap.org.nz Blackcurrant Backpackers (BBH) 20 Taniwha St, Ph: (07) 378 9292, blackcurrantbackpackers@xtra. co.nz Rainbow Lodge (BBH) 133 Summers St, Ph: (08) 9227-1818, rainbowlodge@clear.net.nz Finns Global Backpackers (VIP) Cnr Tongariro & Tuwharetoa Sts, 07 377 0044, go-global.co.nz Silver Fern Lodge Flash-Packers (VIP) Cnr Tamamutu & Kaimanawa Sts, 07 377 4929, silverfernlodges.co.nz
@tnt_downunder 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 Ngawaka Place, 07 386 8999
turangi stay A Plus Backpackers (BBH) 41 Iwiheke Pl, Turangi, 07 386 89 79, makoto0305@xtra.co.nz
Sunset Lodge (BBH) 27 Tremain Ave, 07 378 5962, info@sunsetlodgetaupo.co.nz
Club Habitat Backpackers Assoc YHA 25 Ohuanga Rd, 07 386 7492, yha.co.nz
Base Taupo 7 Tuwharetoa St, 07 377 4464, stayatbase.com
Extreme Backpackers (BBH) 26 Ngawaka Place, 07 386 8949, extremebackpackers.co.nz
Taupo Urban Retreat 65 Heu Heu St, 0800 872 261, tur.co.nz
Riverstone Backpackers (BBH) 222 Tautahanga Rd, 07 386 7004, riverstonebackpackers.com
Tiki Lodge 104 Tuwharetoa St, 0800 845 456, tikilodge.co.nz YHA Taupo 56 Kaimanawa St, 07 378 3311, yha.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. Huka Falls Take a relaxing walk up to Huka Falls where the water pours over the 35ft drop at up to 62,000 gallons per second. The more energetic will enjoy the trek up Mt Tauhara where you will be rewarded with sweeping views. 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
tongariro The World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park, an extraordinary volcanic landscape which became Mordor in those films. Pop into the national park headquarters in Whakapapa. Adventure Lodge & Motel (VIP) Carroll Street, National Park, 07 892 2991, adventurenationalpark.co.nz Forest Lodge (BBH) Cnr Omaki and Ohorere Rds, Owhango, 07 895 4773, forest.lodge@xtra.co.nz Howards Lodge (BBH) Carroll St, National Park, 07 892 2827, howardslodge.co.nz YHA Matai Lodge (BBH) 1 Rata St, Ohakune, 06 385 9169, matai.lodge@xtra.co.nz National Park Backpackers YHA (BBH) Finlay St. The hostel runs transport to the Tongariro Crossing, 07 892 2870, npbp.co.nz Plateau Lodge & Motel (BBH) Carroll St, National Park, 07 892 2993, plateaulodge@xtra.co.nz Ski Haus (BBH) Carroll St, McKenzie St, 07 892 2854, skihaus.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 Whakapapa Visitor Centre SH 48, Whakapapa Village, 07 892 3729
tntDOWNUNDER.com
05_NZ96 47-55 NI.indd 52
23/4/13 11:48:16 PM
like us on
northisland
facebook/tntdownunder
rangitikei
opotiki
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.
A summer holiday town which was once a large Maori settlement and the indigenous people maintain a strong presence here.
The Stockmans Lodge (BBH) 9 Dixon Way, 06 388 1584, stockmanslodge@xtra.co.nz River Valley Dorms 06 388 1444, thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz
Opotiki Information Centre Cnr St John and Elliot Sts, 07 315 3031 Central Oasis Backpackers (BBH) 30 King St, 07 315 5165, centraloasis@hotmail.com Opotiki Backpackers Beach House (BBH) 7 Appleton Rd, Waiotahi Beach, 07 315 5117, hangout@paradise.net.nz
rangitikei do Mokai Gravity Canyon Extreme flying fox, bridge swing and bungy jump. 0800 802 864 River Valley Rafting and horse trekking. 06 388 1444, thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz
east coast The East Coast is among the first places in the world to see the sun rise each morning. This is a relatively tourist-free area of New Zealand that has so much to offer that it can only be a matter of time before visitors begin to flock here.
east cape As you head around the Cape the towns get tinier and the scenery more dramatic. At Te Araroa, you can thead around to the East Cape Lighthouse. Brians Place (BBH) Potae St, Tokomaru Bay, 06 864 5870, briansplace1@hotmail.com Eastender Backpacker & Horse Treks (BBH) 836 Rangitukia Rd, Tikitiki, 06 864 3820, horsetreks@xnet.co.nz Maraehako Bay Retreat (BBH) SH35, Whanarua Bay, 07 325 2648.
Mel’s Place (BBH) Onepoto Beach Rd, Hicks Bay, 06 864 4694, eastcapefishing@xtra.co.nz
gisborne Gisborne is a peaceful surfie town that boasts diving, windsurfing, kayaking and whitewater rafting; try Wainui, Midway and Makarori beaches. You can also soak up the Maori heritage at one of the largest carved maraes in NZ. Flying Nun Backpackers (BBH) 147 Roebuck Rd, 06 868 0461, yager@xtra.co.nz YHA Gisborne 32 Harris St, 06 867 3269, yha.co.nz
wairoa Wairoa is a large town, great as a stop-over before heading into the area’s main attraction: the gorgeous Te Urewera National Park. Wairoa Visitor Information Centre Queen St, 06 838 7440 Haere Mai Cottage (BBH) 49 Mitchell Rd, 06 838 6817 DOC office for hut bookings Lake Waikaremoana, 06 837 3900
napier Napier is a beautiful, surprising city. Its “pleasing to the eye” status is actually the result of an enormous earthquake which meant the entire town had to be rebuilt. Visitor Info Centre 100 Marine Parade, 06 834 1911 Depart of Conservation Office Marine Parade, 06 834 3111
napier stay Aqua Lodge (BBH) 53 Nelson Cres, 06 835 4523, aquaback@inhb.co.nz Criterion Art Deco Backpackers (VIP, Roamfree) 48 Emerson St, 06 835 2059, criterionartdeco.co.nz Napier Prison Backpackers (BBH) 55 Coote Rd, 06 835 9933, getnicked@napierprison.com Waterfront Lodge & Backpackers (BBH) 217 Marine Pd, 06 835 3429, napierwaterfront.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@xtra.co.nz Glenross Lodge (BBH) Route 52, Rakaunui, 06 376 7288, glenross@xtra.co.nz Lochlea Farmstay (BBH) 344 Lake Rd, Wanstead, 06 8554 816 info@lochleafarm.co.nz The Rotten Apple Backpackers (BBH) 114 Heretaunga St, 06 878 4363, rottenapple.co.nz Travellers Lodge Hastings (BBH) 608 St Aubyn St, West Hastings, 06 878 7108, tlodge.co.nz
wairarapa The Wairarapa is a green, tree-lined region north-east of Wellington, famous for its wine and its many sheep – quintessential NZ.
masterton Home to the impressive Queen Elizabeth Park, the Wairarapa Arts Centre, and the best-tasting
word from the street
Kate Lam, Malaysia Where in NZ have you been? I’ve been in NZ for seven months. I’ve seen most of the South Island and am heading to the North very soon. your favourite day spot? There are plenty. Fox Glacier, skydiving, Mount Cook National Park. Favourite night spot? By Lake Tekapo. Sitting next to the Good Shepherd church for the star-gazing. what is on the wish-list? I wish I could go to Tongariro for the white winter crossing.
tntdownunder.com
05_NZ96 47-55 NI.indd 53
53
29/4/13 2:04:54 PM
northisland
BOOK NOW!
1 Bunny St. 04 473 8482 db@downtownbackpackers.co.nz
icecream in New Zealand.
CHECK IN!
Chanel Backpackers 14-18 Herbert St, 06 378 2877
Lodge in the City (VIP) 152 Taranaki St. 04 385 8560 lodgeinthecity.co.nz
taranaki
Maple Lodge (BBH) 52 Ellice St. 04 385 3771
Best known for its snow-capped mountain, Mt Taranaki. Peaceful and impressive, Taranaki has skifields, excellent surf beaches, great walking and climbing.
Nomads Capital 118 Wakefield St. 0508 666 237, nomadscapital.com
mokau Palm House Backpackers (BBH) 06 278 6523, taranaki-bakpak.co.nz
new plymouth Taranaki’s major town is New Plymouth. One of NZ’s finest art galleries is here (the GovettBrewster Art Gallery). It hosts a great café. Department of Conservation 220 Devon St West, 06 758 0433
plymouth stay Eco Inn (BBH) 671 Kent Rd, between Egmont Village and New Plymouth on SH3. 06 752 2765
Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 McDonald Cres. 04 384 3041, backpackerswellington.co.nz
endless summer lodge 245 Foreshore Rd. Dorms from $28. Beachfront hostel with free bodyboards and surfboards for hire. TV free for that magical bonding time with fellow travellers. Ahipara
North Egmont Visitors Centre, 06 758 3222.
stratford Stratford Information Centre Broadway Stratford (State Hwy 3), 06 765 6708, stratford@info.stratford.govt.nz
Egmont Lodge (BBH, YHA) 12 Clawton St, 06 753 5720, yha.co.nz Seaspray House (BBH) 13 Weymouth St, 06 759 8934, seaspray@maxnet.co.nz
Department of Conservation Pembroke Rd, 06 765 5144
Sunflower Lodge (BBH) 33 Timandra St, 06 758, 2842 The Missing Leg (BBH) 1082 Junction Rd, Egmont Village, 06 752 2570, jo.thompson@xtra.co.nz
south taranaki Information South Taranaki 55 High St, Hawera, 0800 111 323, visitorinfo@stdc.govt.nz Wheatly Downs Farmstay Backpackers (BBH) 484 Ararata Rd, Hawera, 06 278 6523, wheatlydowns@taranakibakpak.co.nz
plymouth do Taranaki Surf Charters 20 Beach Road, 025 592 306, taracoastal@hotmail.com
mt taranaki The Camphouse (BBH) 6 Egmont Rd, 02 74 538 975, camphouse@taranaki-bakpak.co.nz Taranaki Accommodation Lodge (BBH) 7 Romeo St, Stratford, 06 765 5444, mttaranakilodge@hotmail.com
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.
54
endlesssummerlodge.co.nz
New Plymouth Info Centre Puke Ariki Complex, St Aubyn Street, 06 759 6080, info@newplymouth.govt.nz
Shoestring Backpackers (BBH) 48 Lemon St, 06 758 0404
follow us on
whanganui Braemar House (YHA) 2 Plymouth St, 06 348 2301, yha.co.nz Tamara Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 24 Somme Pde, 06 347 6300, tamaralodge.com
palmerston nth Manawatu Visitor Centre 101 Guyton St, 06 490-508, manawatu.visitor-info@xtra.co.nz Department of Conservation Office 717 Tremaine Ave, 06 358 9004 Grandma’s Place (BBH) 146 Grey St, 06 358 6928, ak1@clear.net.nz Peppertree Hostel (BBH) 121 Grey St, 06 355 4054.
wellington The nation’s capital is to many people, New Zealand’s most interesting city. Te Papa, the multimillion dollar museum, has sealed its position as cultural capital too. Wellington has a small centre, is easily navigated on foot and as any Wellingtonian will tell you, it has more cafés per head than New York. The nightlife in “Welly” is pretty special too. Wellington Visitor Info Centre Corner of Victoria & Wakefield Sts, 04 802 4860, wellingtonnz.com DOC Information Centre Lambton Quay, 04 472 7356 Ferry to the South Island Boats to Picton on the South Island. Ferries can be booked up well in advance in holiday periods. 0800 802 802, interislandline.co.nz
Whanganui National Park The major attraction is the Whanganui River, snaking through picturesque scenery. Explore with a kayak or riverboat tour.
Ferry Tickets Online 186 Victoria St, 0800 500 660, ferrytickets.co.nz
Wanganui Information Centre 101 Guyton St, 06 349 0508, info@wanganui.govt.nz
Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. 04 801 5666 stayatbase.com
Department of Conservation Office Cnr Ingestre and St Hill Sts, 06 345 2402
welly stay
Cambridge Hotel (BBH) 28 Cambridge Tce. 04 385 8829 cambridgehotel.co.nz Downtown Wellington Backpackers (BBH)
Rowena’s Backpackers (VIP) 115 Brougham St. 0800 80 1414 Wellywood Backpackers 58 Tory St. 0508 00 58 58 Worldwide Backpackers (BBH) 291 The Terrace. 04 802 5590, worldwidenz.co.nz YHA Wellington City 292 Wakefield St. 04 801 7280 yha.co.nz
welly do
@tnt_downunder
Te Papa’s living modern marae. Free entry, Cable St, 04 381 7000, tepapa.govt.nz Wellington Zoo Located in Newtown and home to a wide variety of weird and wonderful animal and bird life, 04 381 6750 Harbour cruises The harbour is a handsome thing and the best way to fully appreciate its beauty is by boat. Wellington Rover Tours Small group day tours exploring Wellington, its stunning rugged coastline and the Lord of the Rings locations. 0800 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.
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
Moana Lodge (BBH) 49 Moana Rd, 04 233 2010, moanalodge.co.nz
Cosmic Corner Funk Store The funkiest store in the universe. Check out the legal highs and chat to the staff, who will happily point you in the right direction for parties, events and scenic spots. 215 Cuba St, 04 801 6970, funk@cosmiccorner.co.nz
Tranz Rail The best way to explore the Kapiti Coast is by train and most places along the way can be reached within an hour or so, 04 498 3000
Karori Wildlife Sanctuary 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 9213, sanctuary.org.nz Mount Victoria The views are breathtaking. It’s damn windy so make sure you’re wearing heavy shoes. Walk, drive or bus it. Museum of Wellington City & Sea Queens Wharf, 04 472 8904 Parliament House Free tours. Visit the Beehive, a uniquely designed centre of government with a distinct style of architecture, 04 471 9503 Te Papa – The National Museum Experience the earthquake simulation room, find out what the early settlers went through and visit Te Marae,
plimmerton
kapiti coast
Stillwater Lodge (BBH) 34 Mana Esplanade, Mana, 04 233 6628
paekakariki Paekakariki Backpackers (BBH) 11 Wellington Rd, 04 902 5967, wellingtonbeachbackpackers. co.nz
paraparaumu The beach here is glorious and the scene of most of the action in town. Barnacles Seaside Inn (BBH, YHA) 3 Marine Parade, Paraparaumu, 0800 555 856, yha.co.nz
kapiti is A sanctuary for rare native birds. There’s a good chance of seeing elusive kiwis and blue penguins. Kapiti Island Nature Tours Tours and accommodation, 06 362 6606, kapitiislandnaturetours.co.nz
tntDOWNUNDER.com
05_NZ96 47-55 NI.indd 54
23/4/13 11:48:42 PM
like us on
facebook/tntdownunder
MUST-VISIT
Taupo
Photo: TNT Images
For those who come to New Zealand simply for a taste of the extreme sports, then Taupo is a town that you cannot pass by. Almost everything that New Zealand is famous for can be done in this area: skydiving, bungee jumping and whitewater rafting. It’s even within reach of the North Island’s ski fields. Skydiving prices are very competitive here, and arguably one of the best places to take the leap in New Zealand. Some of the best activities in Taupo are free though, so make a point of heading out to Huka Falls to witness the torrent of impossible blue rapids followed by a warming dip in the Spa Park Hot Spring. It’s near the start of the Huka Falls Walkway and is also free. Taupo Lake is the main feature of the town and is great for swimming in key locations. Other than Hot Water Beach and several geothermal spots though, the lake is notoriously chilly.
Single, twin, double, triple and share-room budget accommodation and we are the only Wellington backpacker hostel with camping facilities & MYLL VɈ Z[YLL[ WHYRPUN
Rowena’s Lodge is ideally located amidst the tranquil green surroundings of Mount Victoria with panoramic views yet only minutes away from Wellington city centre and the Wellington entertainment precinct of Courtenay Place
NZ freephone 0800 80 14 14 Ph/Fx +64 4 385 7872 email: rowenas@wellingtonbackpackers.co.nz www. wellingtonbackpackers.co.nz tntdownunder.com
05_NZ96 47-55 NI.indd 55
55
23/4/13 11:47:44 PM
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. 0800 223 582, abeltasman.co.nz Abel Tasman Kayaks Ltd 0800 732 529 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 03 547 5782 Nelson City Taxis 03 548 8225
nelson stay Abode of the Buddha 181 Nile St East. 03 546 6890, cynthia@abodefthebuddha.co.nz Accents on the Park (BBH/VIP) 335 Trafalgar Square. 03 548 4335, accentsonthepark.com Almond House (BBH) 63 Grove St. 03 545 6455, almondbackpackers.co.nz Alpine Lodge St Arnaud. 03 521 1869, alpinelodge.co.nz Beach Hostel (BBH) 25 Muritai St. 03 548 6817, nelsonbeachhostel.co.nz The Bug (BBH) 226 Vanguard St. 03 539 4227, thebug.co.nz The Customhouse (BBH) 252 Haven Rd. 03 545 8365, customhousenelson.co.nz
Hu Ha Bikerpackers (BBH) State Highway 6, Glenhope. 03 548 2707, smidgley@ihug.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 Rylands’ Retreat 163 Trafalgar St. 03 548 4691, thepalace.co.nz The Palace Backpackers (BBH) 114 Rutherford St. 03 548 9001, rylands@kol.co.nz Shortbread Cottage (BBH) 33 Trafalgar St. 03 546 6681 Tasman Bay Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 10 Weka St. 03 548 7950, tasmanbaybackpackers.co.nz Trampers Rest (BBH) 31 Alton St. 03 545 7477 Welcome House (BBH) 108 Parkers Road, Tahunahui. 03 548 5462 YHA Nelson Central 59 Rutherford St. 03 545 9988, yha.co.nz
nelson do Abel Tasman Kayaks 0800 527 8022, kayaktours.co.nz Happy Valley 4x4 Motorbike Adventures Tours around spectacular private farm on chunky fourwheel motorbikes. 03 545 0304, happyvalleyadventures.co.nz Kaiteriteri kayaks Free transport from Nelson. 03 527 8383, seakayak.co.nz Skydive Abel Tasman Tandem jumps from 13,000ft over Abel Tasman. 0800 422 899, skydive.co.nz
nelson lakes Located 118km south-west of Nelson, the park comprises Lake Rotoroa and Lake Rotoiti, and is surrounded by forests and mountains. Apart from tramping and skiing at Rainbow Valley and Mt Robert in winter, the lakes offer fishing and other water activities.
motueka
03 528 6543, motuekaisite.co.nz
motueka stay Bakers Lodge (YHA) 4 Poole St. 03 528 0102, yha.co.nz The Barn (BBH) Harvey Road, Marahau. 03 527 8043 Eden’s Edge Backpackers (BBH) 137 Lodder Lane, Riwaka. 03 528 4242, edens.edge@xtra.co.nz Lagoon Lodge (BBH) 500 High St. 03 528 8652, happyapplebackpackers.co.nz Hat Trick Lodge (BBH) 25 Wallace St. 03 528 5353, hattricklodge.co.nz The Laughing Kiwi (BBH) 310 High St. 03 528 9229, laughingkiwi.co.nz Old Macdonald’s Farm Holiday Park 03 527 8288, oldmacs@xtra.co.nz The White Elephant (BBH) 55 Whakarewa St. 03 528 6208, whiteelephant.co.nz Vineyard Tourist Units & Cabins 328 High St. 03 528 8550
motueka do Wilsons Abel Tasman 265 High St, 0800 223 582, abeltasman.co.nz Southern Exposure Abel Tasman Sea Kayaking & Water Taxis 0800 695 292, southern-exposure.co.nz
follow us on Kanuka Ridge (BBH) 21 Moss Rd, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 03 527 8435, abeltasmanbackpackers.co.nz The Nook (BBH) Abel Tasman Dr. 03 525 8501, thenook@paradise.net.nz River Inn (BBH) Golden Bay. 03 525 9425 Shambhala (BBH) Hwy 60, Onekaka. 03 525 8463, shambhala.co.nz
kahurangi np The second-largest national park in NZ, Kahurangi includes the Heaphy Track. There are more than 100 bird species and an impressive cave system to be seen here. For info see the Nelson DOC office.
collingwood North-west of Takaka is the tiny community of Collingwood (the people aren’t particularly small, their numbers are), a good base for expeditions to Farewell Spit. The Innlet (BBH) Main Rd, Pakawau. 03 524 8040, goldenbayindex.co.nz/theinnlet Somerset House (BBH) Gibbs Rd. 03 524 8624, backpackerscollingwood.co.nz
farewell spit Arching east from the top of Golden Bay, this is a sand bar of epic proportions, home to some of the largest sanddunes in the world and some amazing birdlife. Golden Bay Visitor Centre 03 525 9136
takaka
marlborough
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.
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.
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@paradise.net.nz Aquapackers (BBH) Anchorage Bay, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 0800 430 744, aquapackers.co.nz
The Green Monkey (BBH) 129 Milton St. 03 545 7421, thegreenmonkey.co.nz
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.
Honey Suckle House (BBH) 125 Tasman St.
Motueka i-SITE Visitors Centre 20 Wallace St,
Kiwiana (BBH) 73 Motuipipi St. 03 525 7676
Footprints by the Sea (BBH) 31 Beach Rd, Tahuna Beach. 03 546 5441, info@footprints.co.nz
56
03 548 7576
BOOK NOW!
Golden Bay Barefoot Backpackers (BBH) 114 Commercial St. 03 525 7005, bare-foot.co.nz
Anakiwa Backpackers (BBH) 410 Anakiwa Rd. 03 574 1388, anakiwabackpackers.co.nz Hopewell (BBH) Kenepuru Rd. 03 573 4341, hopewell.co.nz The Partage Resort Hotel Kenepuru Sound. 03 573 4309, portage.co.nz
picton This pretty town is the opening to the South Island, where the North Island ferry comes in, a centre for the many activities in Queen Charlotte Sound. Airport shuttle bus 03 573 7125
picton stay Atlantis Backpackers (BBH) London Quay. 03 573 7390,
@tnt_downunder atlantishostel.co.nz Bayview Backpackers (BBH) 318 Waikawa Rd. 03 573 7668, truenz.co.nz/bayviewbackpackers The Jugglers Rest (BBH) 8 Canterbury St. 03 573 5570, info@jugglersrest.com Picton Lodge (VIP) 9 Auckland St. 03 573 7788, pictonlodge.co.nz Sequoia Lodge (BBH, VIP) 3 Nelson Sq. 03 573 8399, sequoialodge.co.nz Picton Lodge (VIP) 9 Auckland St. 03 573 7788, pictonlodge.co.nz The Villa (BBH) 34 Auckland St. 03 573 6598, thevilla.co.nz Tombstone Backpackers (BBH) 16 Gravesend Place. 03 573 7116, rest@tombstonebp.co.nz Wedgwood House (YHA) 10 Dublin St. 03 573 7797, yha.co.nz
picton do Dolphin Watch Encounters Picton Foreshore, 03 573 8040, naturetours.co.nz Marlborough Sounds Adventure Company 03 573 6078 Southern Wilderness NZ Guided walk, wine trek and sea kayaking specialists. 0800 666 044, southernwilderness.com Waka Whenua Tours Wine tours. Sightseeing/ historical/ cultural tours also available. 03 573 7877
queen charlotte On the road-free outer Queen Charlotte Sound, everyone and everything travels by boat. The Queen Charlotte Track covers 71km and passes through magnificent forest, at times allowing spectacular views over the Marlborough Sounds. The whole track can be walked in four days, though you can also ride it by mountain bike. Endeavour Express Water Taxi Day-trips, round-trips and luggage transfers. 03 573 5456
havelock Nestled at the head of Pelorus Sound, Havelock is the best place from which to explore the Marlborough Sounds. For trampers and mountain bikers there’s the beautiful Nydia Track. DOC Office Mahakipawa Rd, 03 574 2019 Explore Pelorus Sea Kayaks 03 576 5251
tntDOWNUNDER.com
06_NZ96 56-66 SI.indd 56
23/4/13 11:37:22 PM
like us on
southisland
facebook/tntdownunder
havelock stay Bluemoon Lodge (BBH) 48 Main Rd. 03 574 2212, bluemoonhavelock.co.nz Nikau Cottages 48 Main Rd. 03 443 9010 Rutherford YHA Hostel 46 Main Road. 03 574 2104, yha.co.nz
pelorus sound
Leeways Backpackers (BBH) 33 Lansdowne St. 03 579 2213, leewaysbackpackers.co.nz Peacehaven Backpackers (BBH) 29 Budge St. 03 577 9750, hrnz@naver.com Stoney Acre 9 Marldene Avenue, Seddon. 03 578 6303, enquiries@stoneyacre.co.nz
kaikoura
The largest waterway within the Marlborough Sounds, it can be accessed from Havelock, Linkwater or Rai Valley.
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).
blenheim
Kaikoura Visitor Info Centre, West End, 03 319 5641
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.
Adelphi Lodge (BBH, VIP) 26 West End. 0800 423 574, adelphilodge.co.nz
Blenheim I-Site 8 Sinclair Street Railway Station 03 577 8080
Albatross Backpacker Inn (BBH) 1 Torquay St. 03 319 6090, albatross-kaikoura.co.nz
Honi-B-Backpackers (BBH) 18 Parker St. 03 577 8441, honi-b.com
Bad Jelly Backpackers (BBH) 11 Churchill St. 03 319 5538, duskyjack@hotmail.com
Koanui Backpackers (BBH) 33 Main St. 03 578 7487, koanui.co.nz
Dolphin Lodge (BBH) 15 Deal St. 03 319 5842, dolphinlodge@xtra.co.nz
kaikoura stay
Dusky Lodge (BBH) 67 Beach Rd. 03 319 5959 The Lazy Shag (BBH) 37 Beach St. 03 319 6662 Lyell Creek Lodge (BBH) 193 Beach Rd. 03 319 6277, jedwards120@hotmail.com Sunrise Lodge (BBH) 74 Beach Rd. 03 319 7444 Top Spot Backpackers (BBH) 22 Deal St. 03 319 5540 YHA Kaikoura, Maui 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
word from the street
boat. 96 Esplanade, 0800 733 365, dolphin.co.nz
christchurchnz.com Department of Conservation 4/195 Hereford Street (03) 371 3700
Fyffe House 62 Avoca St, Kaikoura’s oldest building, 03 319 5835.
c’church stay
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
Around the World Backpackers 314 Barbadoes Street. 03 365 4363 aroundtheworld.co.nz
Seal Swim Kaikoura Swim with wild NZ Fur Seals. 58 West End, 0800 732 579, sealswimkaikoura.co.nz
Canterbury House (BBH) 257 Bealey Ave. 03 377 8108, canterburyeh257@hotmail.com
At The Right Place 85 Bealey Street. 03 366 1633 atrp.co.nz Avon City Backpackers Worcester Street. 03 389 6876, avoncitybackpackers.com
christchurch Christchurch is the South Island’s major city and a lively, pretty base with a distinctly English feel to it. Throw in Mount Cook and Mount Hutt with their skifields (early June to late October) and the Canterbury area is well worth spending some time discovering. Christchurch & Canterbury i-Site Visitor Centre Rolleston Avenue (Next to the Canterbury Museum) Christchurch 8011 03 379 9629
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 stay@kiwibasecamp.com
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Tomoo Nakagawa, Japan Seen much of nz? Almost everywhere where travellers want to go to in both the South and North Island. your favourite spot? Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater. It made me feel relaxed and refresh, also underwater tunnel is breathtaking. favourite night spot? Definitely Mount Eden! Very quiet but not dangerous. You can see Auckland City so close. It’s good for dates as well.
MONteiths brewery If you’re a beer drinker in New Zealand, sooner or later you’ll come across Monteiths Beer & Ciders. If you look even harder you might stumble into Greymouth where their brewery is located. This is a fine turn of events and what better way to celebrate than by taking their brewery tour? You’ll not only learn how the tastiest beer in New Zealand is brewed, but you’ll also get to taste their finest brews.
tntdownunder.com
06_NZ96 56-66 SI.indd 57
57
23/4/13 11:37:39 PM
southisland Kiwi House 373 Gloucester St. 03 381 6645 kiwihouse.co.nz
Akaroa Information Centre 80 Rue Lavaud, 03 304 8600
Marine Backpackers 26 Nayland St. 03 326 6609 themarine.co.nz
Akaroa Shuttle Christchurch to Akaroa buses. 0800 500 929
Point Break Backpackers (BBH) 99 Seaview Road. 03 388 2050 pointbreakbackpackers.co.nz
Akaroa French Connection Tours and shuttle bus, 0800 800 575
The Old Countryhouse (BBH) 437 Gloucester St. 03 381 5504 oldcountryhousenz.com Tranquil Lodge (BBH) 440 Manchester St. 03 366 6500 tranquil-lodge.co.nz Rucksacker Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 70 Bealey Ave. 03 377 7931 rucksacker.com Vagabond Backpackers (BBH) 232 Worcester St. 03 379 9677 vagabondbackpackers @hotmail.com
c’church do Black Cat Cruises Wildlife Cruises on Lyttelton Harbour. Free shuttle bus from Christchurch, 03 328 9078. blackcat.co.nz Skydivingnz.com Skydiving and training courses, 0800 697 593 skydivingnz.com Up Up and Away Hot air ballooning, 03 381 4600, ballooning.co.nz
sumner This surf beach is also a great place to chill for a while. If you’re feeling adventurous, mountain biking, paragliding and surfing are just some of the activities you can try. The Marine Backpackers (BBH) 26 Nayland St. 03 326 6609, themarine.co.nz
banks peninsula Banks Peninsula is a beautiful region with a stunning coastline chock full of mountains and wildlife. The two harbours of Akaroa and Lyttelton are craters of a once majestic volcano.
lyttelton 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. Lyttelton Information Centre 20 Oxford St, 03 328 9093
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.
58
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
BOOK NOW! Waipara Sleepers (BBH) 12 Glenmark Dr, Waipara. 03 314 6003, lewaiparasleepers.co.nz
castle hill Gateway to the Craigieburn Range. Chill Adventures Multi-mountain snow passes. chillout.co.nz Springfield Hotel State Highway 73, Springfield. 03 318 4812, springfieldhotel.co.nz
arthur’s pass This township is the HQ for the magnificent national park which offers tramping expeditions to skiing. National Park Visitor Centre 03 318 9211
Onuku Farm Hostel (BBH) 03 304 7066, onukufarm.com
Rata Lodge Backpackers (BBH) State Highway 73, Otira Arthur’s Pass National Park. 03 738 2822
akaroa do
Smylies Accommodation (YHA) 03 318 9258, yha.co.nz
Akaroa Museum 71 Rue Lavard, 03 304 1013 Black Cat Cruises Offer a number of cruises in Akaroa. See Akaroa Harbour or swim with dolphins. 03 328 9078. Dolphin Experience Swim with dolphins in Akaroa Harbour. 61 Beach Rd, 0508 365 744, dolphinsakaroa.co.nz
lewis pass About 200km north of Christchurch, the Lewis Pass connects the west and east coasts on the SH7, with stunning surrounding scenery.
hanmer springs Hanmer Springs boasts the Hanmer 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 Cnr Amuri Rd & Jacks Pass Rd, 03 315 7128 The Hanmer Connection Christchurch to Hanmer Springs buses. 0800 242 663
hanmer stay Hanmer Backpackers (BBH) 41 Conical Hill Rd. 03 315 7196, info@hanmerbackpackers.co.nz
methven Methven is a small, friendly town popular with fishermen, hunters and backpackers. The area provides a variety of adrenalin thrills, including hot air ballooning, bungy jumping and skydiving. Mt Hutt also has the longest ski run in Australasia. Methven i-SITE Visitor Centre 121 Main St, Methven, 03 302 8955, NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt. nzski.com
methven stay Big Tree Lodge (BBH) 25 South Belt. 03 302 9575, bigtree@xtra.co.nz Backpacker Heaven (YHA) Cnr Bank & McMillan Sts. 03 302 8999, yha.co.nz Kowhai House (BBH) 17 McMillan St. 03 302 8887, kowhaihouse.co.nz Mt Hutt Bunkhouse (BBH) 8 Lampard St. 03 302 8894, mthuttbunks.co.nz Pinedale Backpacker Lodge (BBH) 11 Alford St. 0800 638 483, pinedalelodge.co.nz Redwood Lodge (BBH) 3 Wayne Place. 03 302 8964, skired@xtra.co.nz
Kakapo Lodge (YHA) 14 Amuri Avenue. 03 315 7472, yha.co.nz
Skiwi House (BBH) 30 Chapman St. 03 302 8772, skiwihouse.com
Le Gite Backpackers (BBH) 3 Devon St. 03 315 5111, legite.co.nz
Snow Denn Lodge (YHA, VIP) Cnr Bank & McMillan Sts. 03 302 8999, yha.co.nz
follow us on
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 Old Bank Backpackers 232 Stafford St. 03 684 4392 Timaru Backpackers 44 Evans St. 03 684 5067 Toru Toru Wha Backpackers 334 Stafford St. 03 684 4729
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 4x4 New Zealand Wilderness adventures and The Lord of the Rings tours, 03 693 7254, 4x4newzealand.co.nz Rangitata Rafts Peel Forest, 0800 251 251 Rawhiti Backpackers (BBH) 27 Hewlings St. 03 693 8252 rawhitibackpackers.co.nz/
fairlie Mt Dobson Ski Area, 03 685 8039, dobson.co.nz Tallyho Lodge & Backpackers 7 School Rd. 03 685 8723
lake tekapo A stunning turquoise-coloured lake, 100km west of Timaru. The tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, built in 1935, frames the view beautifully. Activities include walking, watersports, fishing and skiing. Tailor-Made-Tekapo Backpackers (BBH) 9-11 Aorangi Cres. 03 680 6700, rtailor-made-backpackers@ xtra.co.nz Lake Tekapo Backpackers (VIP) SH8. 03 680 6808, stay@laketekapo.bix YHA Lake Tekapo 3 Simpson Lane. 03 680 6857, yha.co.nz
mt cook Mount Cook National Park is part of a World Heritage area that forms one of the most amazing sights anywhere in New Zealand. The showcase is the majestic Mt Cook (Aoraki). NZ’s greatest climber Sir Edmund Hillary used it as a practice ground before conquering Mt Everest, but Mt Cook has claimed the lives of more than 160 people. Discuss climbing plans with park rangers before you go. Department of Conservation Visitor Information Centre Aoraki/Mt Cook Alpine Village, 03 435 1819
@tnt_downunder The Cook Connection Day trips to Mt Cook from Tekapo. Ph: 021 583 211, cookconnect.co.nz
mt cook stay Mountain Chalets (VIP) Wairepo Rd, Twizel. 03 435 0785, mt.chalets@xtra.co.nz YHA Mt Cook Cnr Bowen and Kitchener Drives. 03 435 1820, yha.co.nz
west coast Rugged is the word often used when it comes to the South Island’s west coast. It’s quite an amazing place, sparsely inhabited, untouched in many areas and studded with geographical wonders. Don’t miss the two mighty glaciers, Fox and Franz Josef, or the Pancake Rocks.
karamea Karamea contains pleasant walks, interesting caves and the Oparara River, a great trout fishing spot. Walk along the wonderful Fernian Track or, try the more challenging hike up Mt Stormy. Karamea Information Centre Bridge St, 03 782 6652 Rongo (BBH) 03 782 6667, rongo@actrix.co.nz
murchison With crazy terrain skewed by mining and earthquakes, one of the major attractions of Murchison is its proximity to Buller Gorge, a wonderfully scenic cluster of cliffs and trees. Activities include rafting on the Gowan River and mountain biking on the Matakitaki. Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park 03 523 9809, bullergorge.co.nz The Lazy Cow Accommodation (BBH) 37 Waller St. 03 523 9451, lazycow@paradise.net.nz
reefton The centrepiece of the town is Victoria Forest Park, the largest forest park in New Zealand. Reefton Visitor Centre 67 Broadway, 03 732 8391 Reefton Backpackers 64 Shiel St. 03 732 8133, armsstat@hotmail.com The Old Nurses Home (BBH) 204 Shiel St. 03 789 8881
westport Visitor Information Westport 1 Brougham St, 03 789 6658
tntDOWNUNDER.com
06_NZ96 56-66 SI.indd 58
23/4/13 11:38:00 PM
like us on
southisland
facebook/tntdownunder
Basils Hostel (VIP) 54 Russell St. 03 789 6410, basils.backpackers@xtra.co.nz
be a giant stack of pancakes.
Beaconstone (BBH) Birds Ferry Road, Charleston. 03 715 5760
Barrytown Knife Making 2662 Coast Road, Barrytown, 03 731 1053, barrytownknifemaking.com
Berlins Café & Lodgings (BBH) 1205 Lower Buller Gorge, Inangahua Junction. 03 789 0295, info@xtremeadventures.co.nz Pounamu Backpackers (BBH) Section 406, S H’way 6m Charleston. 03 789 8011, paulhoney@xtra.co.nz Robyn’s Nest Hostel 42 Romilly St. 03 789 6565, robyns.nest@xtra.co.nz Swaines (BBH) Inangahua Landing Bridge, Highway 69, Inangahua Jnctn. 03 789 0226, cathy.swaine@gmail.com TripInn (BBH) 72 Queen St. 03 789 7367 The Old Slaughterhouse (BBH) Highway 67, Hector. 03 782 8333
paparoa np This park is home to the amazing Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki. These are a series of eroded limestone rocks moulded into what appears to
Visitor Information Punakaiki 03 731 1895
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 All Nations Hotel & Backpackers (VIP) SH6, Barrytown. 03 731 1812, allnations@xtra.co.nz
greymouth The west coast’s largest town is dominated by the Grey River. Highlights include the Monteith’s brewery tour, as well as aquatic activities like rafting and canyoning. Visitor Information Herbert and Mackay Sts, 03 768 5101 TranzAlpine Scenic railway from Christchurch to Greymouth, travelling through Canterbury Plains and the Alps. Departs 9am every
morning. 0800 872 467 tranzscenic.co.nz
greymouth stay The west coast’s largest town is dominated by the Duke Backpackers (BBH) 27 Guiness St. 03 768 9470 Global Village (BBH) 42-54 Cowper St, Ph: (03) 768 7272, globalvillage@minidata.co.nz
hokitika
Hokitika Visitor Info Centre Carnegie Building, corner of Hamilton & Tancred Street, 03 755 6166
hokitika stay
The Hairy Lemon 128-130 Mawhera Quay, 03 768 4022,
Beach House BPs 137 Revell St, 03 755 6859
Neptunes International Backpackers (BBH) 43 Gresson St, 0800 003 768, info@neptunesbackpackers.co.nz
Birdsong (BBH) 124 SH6, 03 755 7179
Noahs Ark Backpackers (BBH) 16 Chapel St, 03 768 4868, noahsark@xtra.co.nz The Ranch 37 MacDougall Ave, 03 762 7801, dunolliebackpackers@hotmail.com YHA Greymouth Kainga-ra 15 Alexander St, Ph: (03) 768 4951, yha.co.nz
hokitika do
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.
Drifting Sands Backpackers (BBH) 197 Revell St, 03 755 7612, madkiwi.co.nz Mountain Jade Backpackers (BBH) 41 Weld St, 03 755 8007, mtjade@minidata.co.nz Riverview Cabins (BBH) 154 Kaniere Rd, 03 755 7440 Stumpers Accommodation 2 Weld St, 03 755 6154, stumpers.co.nz
Alpine Rafts Freephone: 0800 223 456. The Just Jade Experience Design and create your own treasures with NZ jade/ greenstone. Allow at least 6-10 hours. 197 Revell St, 03 755 7612, madkiwi.co.nz
whataroa About 35km south of Harihari and one of the South Island’s prime fishing spots. Also the magnificent white heron (Kotuku) colony which thrillseekers can reach by jet boat.
okarito The tiny beach settlement of Okarito, near Franz Josef Glacier, sits at the mouth of New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland – the Okarito Lagoon. Hike up to the Okarito Trig for excellent views. Okarito Nature Tours 03 753 4014, kayaks@okarito.co.nz Royal Hostel (BBH) The Strand, 03 753 4080, okaritohostel.com YHA Okarito Palmerston St, Whataroa, 03 753 4347, yha.co.nz
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Marlborough sounds Coming across to the South Island via ferry you’ll have had a taste of Marlborough Sounds, so maybe you’d be surprised to hear that there’s a lot more to it than that? A huge number of tour companies operate out of Picton and can show you the ins and outs of the whole area in a matter of hours.The Sounds are equally enjoyable by car and on foot as well though. Queen Charlotte Drive, between Picton and Nelson has plenty of viewpoints from which to get a good feel for the Sounds, or there’s the much longer Queen Charlotte Track for walkers. The trek can be done in sections by means of water taxi, so don’t rule it out just because you don’t fancy doing the whole thing in one go. As with most of New Zealand’s beauty there’s always an adrenaline option, so if the ferry is too slow and you have the extra cash you can always parachute into Picton from Wellington and get a taste for Marlborough Sounds from above.
tntdownunder.com
06_NZ96 56-66 SI.indd 59
59
23/4/13 11:38:11 PM
southisland
BOOK NOW!
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
CHECK IN!
Black Sheep (VIP) SH 6, 03 752 0007 Chateau Franz (VIP, BBH) 8-10 Cron St, 0800 728 372, chateaufranz.co.nz
adventure queenstown hostel 36 Camp St, Queenstown. Dorms from $29 Spotless hostel, with modern kitchens and run by experienced travellers. Free bicycles, frisbees and then some.
Glow Worm Cottages (BBH) 27 Cron St, 0800 151 027, budgetaccommodation.co.nz Montrose (BBH) 9 Cron St, 03 752 0188, montrosebackpackers@xtra.co.nz Rainforest Retreat (VIP) Cron St, 0800 873 346 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 Franz Josef Glacier Guides Guided walks and heli-hikes on the Franz Josef Glacier 0800 484 337, franzjosefglacier.com Glacier Country Kayaks Explore the glaciers from the water 03 752 0230, glacierkayaks.com Skydive Franz At 18,000ft, they currently offer NZ’s highest skydive. 0800 458 677, skydivefranz.co.nz The Guiding Company 0800 800 102, nzguides.com
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, 03 751 0807
fox stay Fox Glacier Inn 03 751 0088
60
Queenstown
aqhostel.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 Haast Highway Accommodation Marks Rd, 03 750 0703 Wilderness Backpackers (BBH) Marks Rd, 03 750 029, whitesnalex@xtra.co.nz
southland The top of your chest will quickly get sore as the South Island’s jawdropping 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 Cnr Ballantyne Rd & Ardmore St, 03 443 8372
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 Albert Town Lodge (BBH) Cnr SH6 and Kingston St, Albert Town, 03 443 9487, alberttownlodge.co.nz Holly’s Backpackers (BBH) 71 Upton St, 03 443 8187, hollys@xtra.co.nz Mountain View Backpackers (BBH) 7 Russell St, 0800 112 201, stay@mtnview.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@xtra.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, 13 Gorge Rd. 03 442 7220, 03 443 9422, alpinelodge@xtra.co.nz aspiringguides.com Aspen Lodge (BBH) Classic Flights 11 Gorge Rd. 03 442 9671, Vintage Tiger Moth flights over aspenlodge.co.nz Lake Wanaka. 03 443 4043, Base Discovery Lodge classicflights.co.nz Queenstown 49 Shotover St. Deep Canyon 03 441 1185, stayatbase.com Canyoning in the Matukituki Valley. Black Sheep Lodge (BBH/VIP) Adventure Wanaka, 23 Dunmore St, 13 Frankton Rd. 03 442 7289, Wanaka. blacksheepbackpackers.co.nz 03 443 7922, Bungi Backpackers (VIP, BBH) deepcanyon.co.nz 15 Sydney St. 0800 728 286, Frogz Have More Fun bungibackpackers.co.nz Sledge down either the Clutha, Hawea or Kawarau Rivers. Butterfli Lodge (BBH) 62 0800 437 649, Thompson St. 03 442 6367, frogz.co.nz 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 Wanaka Rock Climbing One, three and five-day rock climbing courses for everyone. 03 443 6411, wanakarock.co.nz
Flaming Kiwi Backpackers (BBH) 39 Robins Rd. 03 442 5494, flamingkiwi@xtra.co.nz Hippo Lodge (BBH) 4 Anderson Hts. 03 442 5785, hippolodge.co.nz Nomads Queenstown 5-11 Church St. 03 441 3922, nomadshostels.com
Wanaka Flightseeing Milford Sound flight and cruise from Wanaka, 03 443-8787, f lightseeing.co.nz
Pinewood Lodge (VIP) Queenstown’s best value accommodation. We offer an excellent variety of accommodation, everything from deluxe en-suite rooms with Wanaka Sightseeing private bathroom amenities, Includes Lord of the Rings tours, inexpensive double and twin 2 Anderson Rd, 03 338 0982, rooms, dorm beds and selfwanakasightseeing.co.nz contained family cabins. 48 Hamilton Rd. 0800 746 396, 03 442 8273, pinewood.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 Walking Centre 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)
Resort Lodge (BBH) 6 Henry St. 03 442 4970, resortlodge.co.nz Scallywags Traveller’s Guesthouse (BBH) 27 Lomond Crescent. 03 442 7083 Southern Laughter (BBH, VIP) 4 Isle St. 0800 728 448, southernlaughter.co.nz The Last Resort (BBH) 6 Memorial St. 03 442 4320, thelastresort@xtra.co.nz Thomas’s Hotel & BPs (VIP) 50 Beach St. 03 442 7180 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.
tntDOWNUNDER.com
06_NZ96 56-66 SI.indd 60
23/4/13 11:38:29 PM
like us on
southisland
facebook/tntdownunder
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
CHECK IN!
aoraki mt cook national park Climbing Mt Cook is beyond the abilities of most people, it takes a great deal of planning and peak physical fitness, so don’t feel bad if you only experience it from below. There’s plenty in the National Park to keep you occupied and inspired by natural beauty. From Mt Cook Village there are a series of walks ranging from very short to very long that will take you through Lord of the Rings-esque landscapes. One in particular will lead you to the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake, which is rather unexpectedly full of icebergs. While you cannot climb on the icebergs, and it’s absolutely not recommended you even try, you can get up close with a tour from Glacier Explorers. In certain months the whole area is covered in wildflowers, making for even more colourful scenery, all while under the gaze of the tallest mountain in Australasia.
noah’s ark backpackers 16 Chapel St, Greymouth. Beds from $27 Once a monastery and now a brilliant animal-themed hostel. Great freebies, including mountain bikes and fishing rods. Camping sites also available.
Greymouth
noahsarkbackpackers.co.nz
tntdownunder.com
06_NZ96 56-66 SI.indd 61
61
24/4/13 9:15:13 PM
southisland
arrowtown Poplar Lodge (BBH) 4 Merioneth St, 03 442 1466, stay@poplarlodge.co.nz Riverdown Guesthouse (BBH) 7 Bedford St, 03 409 8499
te anau
CHECK IN! Shortbread Cottage 33 Trafalgar St, Nelson. Dorms from $26 A small but charming hostel, just a short walk from the town centre. Free internet, fresh-baked bread and shortbread on arrival.
Nelson
shortbreadcottage.co.nz
AJ Hackett Bungy Queenstown Jump off one or all of New Zealand’s most well-known sites. Nevis Highwire Bungy, the highest in New Zealand – 134m above the Nevis River. The Kawarau Bridge, the world’s first bungy – 43m above the Kawarau River. The 47m Ledge, 400m above the town which you can jump day or night. Access is by Skyline Gondola. 0800 286 4958 bungy.co.nz Awesome Foursome Bungy (Nevis – 134m), jetboat, helicopter, whitewater rafting, 03 442 7318 Dart River Safaris Jetboating wilderness tours, 0800 327 8538, dartriver.co.nz Fat Tyre Adventure Mountain biking/heli biking, 0800 328 897, fat-tyre.co.nz Fergburger Best burgers in NZ. Shotover St, 03 441 1232 Flight Park Tandem Paragliding Operates from Coronet Peak 0800 467 325, tandemparagliding.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 Milford Sound Flightseeing Scenic flights to Milford Sound, 0800 65 65 01, realjourneys.co.nz Nevis Snowmobile Safaris Helicopter ride & snowmobile adventure, 03 442 4250, snowmobilenz.com NZONE Skydive Skydive from 15,000ft. 35 Shotover St, 03 442 5867,
62
nzone.biz NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt, nzski.com Queenstown Rafting Raft the Shotiver, Kawarau and Landsborough rivers. 35 Shotover St. 03 442 9792 rafting.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 Shotover Canyon Swing Jump or be released 109m off the world’s highest cliff jump. 0800 279 464, canyonswing.co.nz Shotover Jet Jetboat ride. 0800 746 868 shotoverjet.com Sky Trek Hang Gliding 03 442 9551, skytrek.co.nz Vertigo Mountain Biking Heli-bike and gondola downhill. 0800 837 8446, vertigobikes.co.nz
glenorchy Just out of Queenstown is Glenorchy (or “Isengard”) which has some of the best walks in the area, including the Greenstone and Caples tracks. Department of Conservation Beech St, 03 442 7933 Glenorchy Backpackers Retreat (VIP) Cnr Mull and Argyle Streets, Glenorchy, Ph: (03) 442 9902 Kinloch Lodge (BBH) 862 Kinloch Rd, 03 442 4900, kinlochlodge.co.nz
follow us on
BOOK NOW!
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 Real Journeys Coaches to Milford Sound, 0800 656 503 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, rainbowdowns@xtra.co.nz Bob & Maxines (BBH) 20 Paton Place, 03 931 3161, bob.anderson@woosh.co.nz Grumpy’s Backpackers Te Anau-Milford Sound Highway, 03 249 8133, grumpys@xtra.co.nz Rosies Backpacker Homestay (BBH) 23 Tom Plato Drive, 03 249 8431, backpack@paradise.net.nz Steamers Beach Backpackers (BBH) 77 Manapouri Rd, 03 249 7457, teanau.info Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers (BBH) 48 Lakefront Dr, 03 249 7713, teanaubackpackers.co.nz YHA Te Anau 29 Mokonui St, 03 249 7847, yha.co.nz
te anau do
Adventure Fiordland 72 Town Centre, 03 249 8500 Fiordland Ecology Holidays 3-10 day cruises, all Southern Fiords. Mammal watching permit, 0800 249 660, fiordland.gen.nz High Ride Adventures Quad riding and scenic horse trekking. 03 249 8591, highride.co.nz Luxmore Jet Jetboating on the Waiau River, 0800 253 826, luxmorejet.co.nz Real Journeys Doubtful Sound daytime wilderness, small boat and overnight cruises. Milford Sound daytime, overnight scenic, nature and small boat cruises. 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz Milford Track Day Walk Lake cruise and guided walk, 0800 656 501 Rosco’s Milford Sound Sea Kayaks 0800 476 726, roscosmilfordkayaks Skydive Fiordland Dive 44 Caswell Rd, Te Anau, 0800 829254, tawakidive.co.nz Tracknet 03 249 7737, res@tracknet.net.au
anau to milford The distance between Te Anau and Milford Sound may be 119km but the breathtaking scenery along the way makes the journey extremely enjoyable. Along the road watch out for the Mirror Lakes and the disappearing mountain. Another highlight is the 1.2km rough-hewn Homer Tunnel. It’s pitch black, having no lighting plus it’s pretty darn steep – a thrilling experience for those afraid of the dark.
milford sound Green, wet and breathtakingly beautiful, Milford Sound is one of the most picturesque sights in the world. Much of the action in the Milford Sound takes place on the water and the best way to appreciate the beauty on show is on a cruise or kayak. Bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins all hang out there. Milford Sound Lodge (BBH) 03 249 8071, milford.sound.lodge@xtra.co.nz
milford do Real Journeys 0800 656 501, reservations@realjourneys.co.nz
@tnt_downunder
Milford Sound Underwater Observatory Discover a coral reef beneath Milford Sound, 03 249 9442 Milford Sound Cruise & Observatory Visit 0800 656 501 Milford Wanderer Cruises Day and overnight options with kayaking, etc. Coach connections, 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz Tawaki Dive See Fiordland’s unique marine life on a day-trip with two guided dives in Milford Sound. Rental gear available, max four divers. 0800 829254, tawakidive.co.nz TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Farm tours, barbecue lunches, horse treks and cycling. realjourneys.co.nz Wanaka Flightseeing Milford Sound flight and cruise, 0800 105 105, flightseeing.co.nz
manapouri Manapouri is the proud owner of arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful stretch of water. This is where the boat trip on Doubtful Sound leaves from – most start the trip in Queenstown or Te Anau. From the boat you may see seals and possibly dolphins and penguins. Adventure Charters and Hires 03 249 6626 Real Journeys 0800 656 502
manapouri stay Freestone Backpackers (BBH) 270 Hillside Rd, 03 249 6893, freestone@xtra.co.nz Manapouri Lakeview Backpackers (VIP) 68 Cathedral Drive, 03 249 6652, manapouri@clear.net.nz Possum Lodge (BBH) 13 Murrel Ave, 03 249 6623.
doubtful 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.
Great Sights On and under the water, 03 442 9445
Real Journeys Daytime wilderness, small boat and overnight cruises. 0800 656 502
Kiwi Reel Rifle Guided fishing & hunting. Kayaking on Lakes Te Anau, Manapouri and Milford Sound. Rental kayaks and mountain bikes, 03 249 9071
Fiordland Navigator Pearl Harbour, Manapouri 03 249 6602, yha.co.nz Deep Cove Hostel
tntDOWNUNDER.com
06_NZ96 56-66 SI.indd 62
23/4/13 11:38:45 PM
like us on
southisland
facebook/tntdownunder
Doubtful Sound, 03 249 7713, hostel.co.nz
invercargill The southernmost city in New Zealand, Invercargill is a farmingorientated community with a pleasant collection of parks and museums to keep you busy. Invercargill I-site Visitors Centre 108 Gala St, 03 214 6243 Dept of Conservation Office Don St, 03 214 4589 Catlins Coaster Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins with many stops to the main natural attractions and wildlife encounters. Farmstay options are available, 0800 304333, catlinscoaster.co.nz Stewart Island Flights Flights to Stewart Island, 03 218 9129, sif@xtra.co.nz
invercarg stay Kackling Kea Backpackers (BBH) 225 Tweed St, 03 214 7950 Southern Comfort (BBH) 30 Thompson St, 03 218 3838 Tuatara Lodge (VIP) 30 Dee St, 03 214 0956, tuataralodge.co.nz
Anglem House 20 Miro Crescent, 03 219 1552, yha.co.nz
the catlins The beautiful Catlins is a sprawling mass of bush, forest and rivers, stretching all the way from Waipapa Point in Southland to Nugget Point in Otago. The best bit about the Catlins is the abundance of wildlife. Catlins Community Info Centre 3 Main Rd, Owaka, South Otago, 03 415 8371, info@catlins-nz.com Elm Lodge Wildlife Tours Two-day camping trips, 0800 356 563, elmwildlifetours.co.nz
catlins stay
The Falls Backpackers (BBH) Purakaunui Falls Rd, Owaka, 03 415 8724, sparx@es.co.nz Fernlea Backpackers (VIP) Moana St, Kaka Point, 03 412 8834
The Dubliner (BBH) 105 Tiverton St, Palmerston, 03 465 1896, andreas69@xtra.co.nz
Penguin Paradise Holiday Lodge (BBH) 612 Waikawa-Niagara Rd, Waikawa Village South Catlins, 03 2468 552, dolphinsurf@xtra.co.nz
gore Gore spans the Mataura river and boasts some lovely scenery in the Hokonui Hills and the Country and Western festival each June. Old Fire Station Backpackers (BBH) 19 Hokonui Dr, 03 208 1925, oldfirestation@ispnz.co.nz
Dunedin Central Backpackers (BBH) 243 Moray Pl, 03 477 9985, duncb_nz@yahoo.co.nz The Jolly Poacher (BBH) 74 Elm Row, 03 477 3384
The Jolly Poacher (BBH) 54 Arthur St, 03 477 3384, jollypoacher@ihug.co.nz
Surat Bay Lodge (BBH) Surat Bay Rd, New Haven, 03 415 8099, suratbay.co.nz
Shooters Backpackers 73 Main St, Tuatapere, 03 226 6250
Chalet Backpackers (BBH) 296 High St, 03 479 2075
Curio Bay Backpacker Accommodation (BBH) 501 Curio Bay Rd, 03 246 8797.
The beautiful road west of Invercargill towards Fiordland is known as the Southern Scenic Route.
Harbison Backpackers (BBH) 5 Harbison St, Otautau, 03 225 8715, michdale@xtra.co.nz
Bus Stop backpackers (BBH) 252 Harrington Point Rd, Portobello, 03 478 0330, backpacker@slingshot.co.nz
Hogwartz (BBH) 277 Rattray St, 03 474 1487, hogwartz@actrix.co.nz
southern scenic
The Globe Backpackers (VIP) 144 Palmerston St, Riverton, 03 234 8527, globebackpackers@xtra.co.nz
dunedin stay The Asylum Lodge (BBH) 36 Russell Rd, Seacliff, 03 465 8123
Blowhole Backpackers (BBH) 24 Main Rd, Owaka, 03 415 5635, catlinsbackpackers@xtra.co.nz
The Split Level (BBH) 9 Waikawa Rd, Owaka, 03 415 8304, brianwayne@clear.net.nz
Dustez Bak Paka’s (BBH) 15 Colac Bay Rd, Riverton, 03 234-8399 dustez@xtra.co.nz
9 the Octagon, 03 471 8571, Email: penguinpatch@xtra.co.nz
Thomas Catlins Lodge & Holiday Park, 03 415 8333, yha.co.nz Wright’s Mill Lodge (BBH) 865 Tahakopa Valley Rd, 03 204 8424 catlinsaccommodation.co.nz
dunedin Dunedin is Celtic for “Edinburgh” and many Scottish principles endure here. One thing the locals do much better than their Scots ancestors is play rugby, so if there’s a game on at Carisbrook (the “House of Pain”) while you’re in town, beg, borrow or steal to get yourself there. Dunedin Visitor Centre 48 The Octagon, 03 474 3300 Dept of Conservation Office 77 Stuart St, 03 477 0677 Penguin Patch
Kiwis Nest (BBH)597 George St, 03 471 9540. Leviathan Heritage Hotel 27 Queens Gardens, 0800 773 773, leviathan@xtra.co.nz Manor House (BBH) 28 Manor Place, 03 477 0484, manorhousebackpackers.co.nz On Top Backpackers (BBH) 12 Filleul St, cnr Moray Pl, 03 477 6121. Pennys Backpackers (BBH) 6 Stafford St, 03 477 6027, info@pennys.co.nz Queens Garden Backpackers (VIP) 42 Queens Garden, 03 479 2175, dunedinbackpackers@xtra.co.nz Ramsay Lodge (BBH) 60 Stafford St, 03 477 6313, ramsay.lodge@xtra.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
alexandria Alexandra and Roxburgh are the two main towns for fruit-picking work in the Central Otago region. Two Bob Flashpackers (BBH) Marshalll Rd, 03 449 3188, twobobs@xtra.co.nz
roxburgh Villa Rose Backpackers (BBH) 79 Scotland St, 03 446 8761, remarkableorchards@xtra.co.nz
oamaru A charming little place noted for both its interesting collection of white granular limestone buildings and its large penguin population. Visitor Information Centre Thames St, 03 434 1656 Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony View blue penguins at dusk. Waterfront Rd, 03 433 1195, penguins.co.nz
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.
Chillawhile Backpackers (BBH) & Art Gallery 1 Frome St, Roberts Park, 03 437 0168, chillawhile.co.nz
Billy Browns (BBH) 423 Aramoana Rd, Port Chalmers, 03 472 8323, billybrowns@actrix.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
McFarmers Backpackers (BBH) 774 Portobello Rd, Portobello, 02 5206 0640, mcfarmersbackpackers @hotmail.com
Empire Hotel (BBH) 13 Thames St, 03 434 3446, empirehotel@hotmail.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
Old Bones Backpackers (BBH) Rapid Number 468 Beach Rd, Kakanui, 03 434 8115, simon@oldbones.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
YHA Oamaru, Red Kettle Seasonal (open September/ October to May/June only). Corner of Reed and Cross Sts, 03 434 5008, yha.co.nz Swaggers Backpackers (BBH) 25 Wansbeck St, 03 434 9999, swaggers@es.co.nz
moeraki Just 30km south of Oamaru lies a remarkable collection of eerie giant boulders. Olive Grove Lodge (BBH) 2328 SH1, Waianakarua, 03 439 5830, info@olivebranch.co.nz The Dubliner 105 Tiverton St, Palmerston, 03 465 8123
taiaroa head Taiaroa Head is the place to see the albatross colony, the only mainland colony in the world inside the bounds of a city.
kurow Glenmac Farm Hostel (BBH) Gards Rd, 03 436 0200, glenmac@xtra.co.nz
tntdownunder.com
06_NZ96 56-66 SI.indd 63
63
23/4/13 11:38:59 PM
onwardsfiji nadi & west Aquarius Pacific Hotel +679 672 6000 Beach Escape Villas +679 672 4442, beachscape@ connect.com.fj Cathay Hotel +679 666 0566,
fiji4less.com
Horizon Beach Resort +679 672 2832, horizonbeachfiji.com Nadi Bay Resort Hotel +679 672 3599, fijinadibayhotel.com Nadi Down Town Backpackers Inn +679 670 0600, pacvalley@connect.com.fj Nadi Hotel +679 670 0000, ndht@connect.com.fj
Coconut Bay Resort +679 666 6644 coconutbay_fiji2002@yahoo.com Korovou Eco Tour Resort +679 666 6644 korovoultk@connect.com.fj Kuata Resort +679 666 6644 Long Beach Backpackers Resort +679 666 6644 Manta Ray Island +679 672 6351 mantarayisland@connect.com.fj Nabua Lodge +679 666 9173 nabualodge@connect.com.fj Oarsmans Bay Lodge +679 672 2921 nacula@hotmail.com
Nomads Skylodge Hotel +679 672 2200
Octopus Resort +679 666 6337 reservations@octopusresort.com
Saweni Beach Apartment Hotel +679 666 1777, fiji4less.com
Sunrise Lagoon Resort +679 666 6644
Smugglers Cove Beach Resort +679 672 6578, smugglers beachfiji.com
Wayalailai Island Resort +679 672 1377 wayalailai@connect.com.fj
Travellers Beach Resort +679 672 3322, beachvilla@connect.com.fj
White Sandy Beach Dive Resort +679 666 4066
yasawa islands Awesome Adventures Fiji +679 675 0499, awesomefiji.com
mamanuca isl Beachcomber Island Resort +679 666 1500, beachcomberfiji.com
follow us on
BOOK NOW! Bounty Island Resort +679 666 6999, fiji-bounty.com Rau Kini’s Hostel +679 672 1959, rtkinihostel@connect.com.fj The Funky Fish Beach Resort +679 628 2333, funkyfishresort.com The Resort Walu Beach +679 665 1777, walubeach.com
coral coast
Tsulu Luxury Backpackers & Apartments +679 345 0065, tsulu.com Vakaviti Motel & Dorm +679 650 0526, bulavakaviti@connect.com.fj Vilisite Place +679 650 1030
suva Colonial Lodge +679 92 75248, sailevukaga@yahoo.co.nz
Beachouse +679 653 0500, fijibeachouse.com
Lami Lodge Backpackers +679 336 2240, volau@connect.com.fj
Mango Bay Resort +679 653 00690, mangobayresortfiji.com
Leleuvia Island Resort +679 331 9567, eleen@leleuvia. com
Pacific Safaris Club +679 345 0498, safariclub@connect.com.fj Rendezvous Dive Resort +679 628 4427, surfdivefiji.com Robinson Crusoe +679 629 1999, robinsoncrusoeislandfiji.com Seashell Cove Resort +679 670 6100, seashellresort.com Tabukula Beach Bungalows +679 650 0097, fiji4less.com The Uprising Beach Resort +679 345 2200, uprisingbeachresort.com
Raintree Lodge +679 332 0562, raintreelodge.com Royal Hotel +679 344 0024 royal@connect.com.fj South Seas Private Hotel +679 331 2296, fiji4less.com Tailevu Hotel +679 343 0028
north viti levu Bethams Cottage +679 669 4132, bethams.com.fj Macdonalds Beach Cottages +679 669 4633
@tnt_downunder
Morrison’s Beach Cottagess +679 669 4516, tipple@connect.com.fj Safari Lodge Fijis +679 669 3333 safarilodge.com.fj Volivoli Beach Resort +679 669 4511, volivoli.com
vanua levu Bayside Backpacker Cottage +679 885 3154, tripntour@connect.com.fj Hidden Paradise Guest House +678 885 0106 Naveria Heights Lodge +679 851 0157, justnaveria@connect.com.fj Savusavu Hot Springs +679 885 0195, hotspringshotel@connect.com.fjj
taveuni Albert’s Sunrise +679 333 7555 Matava Resort +679 330 5222, matava.com Reece’s Place +679 362 6319 Waisalima Beach Resort +679 738 9236, waisalima.com
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Fiji’s main budget backpacker properties are situated in the Yasawa Islands, north-west of Nadi. Some 24 properties operate over 20 rugged islands, with crystal blue lagoons and great beaches. The islands are serviced daily by the Yasawa Flyer, a large and fast catamaran. However, make sure you ring ahead to book before jumping on the boat.
64
Photo: Tourism Fiji
the yasawas
tntDOWNUNDER.com
06_NZ96 56-66 SI.indd 64
23/4/13 11:39:19 PM
like us on
onwardsaustralia
facebook/tntdownunder
sydney stay Base Sydney 477 Kent St. CBD. 02 9267 7718, stayatbase.com
The Witch’s Hat 148 Palmerston St. 08 9228 4228, witchshat.com
03 9427 9826, centralaccommodation.net
CHECK IN!
Exford Hotel 199 Russell St. 03 9663 2697, exfordhotel.com.au
Big Hostel 212 Elizabeth St. CBD. 02 9267 7718, bighostel.com
darwin stay Banyan View Lodge Darwin 119 Mitchell St. 08 8981 8644, banyanviewlodge.com.au
Flinders Station Hotel 35 Elizabeth St. 03 9620 5100, f lindersbackpackers.com.au
Bounce Budget Hotel 28 Chalmers St. CBD. 02 9281 2222, bouncehotel.com.au
Darwin YHA 97 Mitchell St. 08 8981 5385, yha.com.au
Easy Go Backpackers 752 George St. CBD. 02 9211 0505, easygobackpackers.com.au
The Greenhouse Backpacker Level 6, 228 Flinders Lane. 1800 249 207, greenhousebackpacker.com.au
Elkes Backpackers 112 Mitchell St. 1800 808 365, elkesbackpackers.com.au
City Resort Hostel 103-105 Palmer St. Woolloomooloo 02 9357 3333, cityresort.com.au
Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Road, St Kilda. 1800 202 500, habitathq.com.au
Frogshollow Backpackers 27 Lindsay St. 1800 068 686, frogs-hollow.com.au
Home at the Mansion 66 Victoria Parade. 03 9663 4212, homemansion.com.au
Gecko Lodge 146 Mitchell St. 1800 811 250, geckolodge.com.au
Home Travellers Motel 32 Carlisle St, St Kilda. 1800 008 718, hometravellersmotel.com.au
Melaleuca on Mitchell 52 Mitchell St. 1300 723 437, momdarwin.com
The Furnished Property Group 02 8669 3678, furnishedproperty.com.au
Wake up!
Sydney Central YHA 11 Rawson Place. CBD. 02 9218 9000 yha.com.au
Modern, clean, spacious and with a sense of fun at all times. You only need to visit their bar downstairs any night of the week to know why.
Sydney Harbour YHA 110 Cumberland Street. The Rocks. 02 9261 1111, yha.com.au Westend Backpackers 412 Pitt St. CBD. 1800 013 186 nomadshostels.com Boomerang Backpackers 141 William Street, Kings Cross. 02 8354 0488, boomerangbackpackers.com Dlux Hostel 30 Darlinghurst Rd, Kings Cross. 1800 236 213 dluxbudgethotel.com.au Kangaroo Bak Pak 665 South Dowling St. Surry Hills. 02 9261 1111 Avalon Beach Hostel 59 Avalon Pde, Avalon Beach. 02 9918 9709, avalonbeach.com.au Bondi YHA 63 Fletcher Street. Tamarama. 02 9365 2088, yha.com.au Lamrock Lodge 19 Lamrock Ave. Bondi. 02 9130 5063, lamrocklodge.com
509 Pitt St, Sydney . Dorms from $34
Sydney
wakeup.com.au
bunkhouse.com.au Manly Backpackers 24-28 Raglan St. Manly. 02 9977 3411 manlybackpackers.com.au
1800 446 646,
tinbilly.com
cairns stay
Bohemia Resort Cairns 231 McLeod St. 1800 155 353, bohemiaresort.com.au
Nomads Melbourne 198 A’beckett St. 1800 447 762, nomadshostels.com
Calypso Backpackers 5 Digger St. 1800 815 628, calypsobackpackers.com.au
Space Hotel 380 Russell St. 1800 670 611, spacehotel.com.au
Montgomery’s YHA 9 Argyle St. 03 6231 2660, yha.com.au
Dreamtime Travellers Rest 189 Bunda St. 1800 058 440, dreamtimehostel.com
The Spencer 475 Spencer St. 1800 638 108, hotelspencer.com
Base Brisbane Embassy 214 Elizabeth St. 07 3166 8000, stayatbase.com
Gilligans Backpackers and Hotel Resort 57-89 Grafton St. 1800 556 995, gilligans.com.au
Urban Central 334 City Rd, Southbank. 1800 631 288, urbancentral.com.au
Narrara Backpackers 88 Goulburn St. 03 6234 8801, narrarabackpackers.com
Base Brisbane Central 308 Edward St. 07 3211 2433, stayatbase.com
JJ’s Backpackers Hostel 11 Charles St. 07 4051 7642, jjsbackpackers.com
Brisbane Backpackers Resort 110 Vulture St, West End. 1800 626 452, brisbanebackpackers.com.au
NJOY Travellers Resort 141 Sheridan St. 1800 807 055, njoy.net.au
Cammeray Gardens 66 Palmer St, North Sydney. 02 9954 9371 sydneyboardinghouse.com
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 City Backpackers 380 Upper Roma St 1800 062 572, citybackpackers.com
Nomads Cairns 341 Lake St. 1800 737 736, nomadshostels.com
Coogee Beachside 178 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee. 02 9315 8511, sydneybeachside.com.au
Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St 07 3236 1947, yha.com.au
Nomads Esplanade 93 The Esplanade. 1800 175 716, nomadshostels.com
Surfside Backpackers 186 Arden Street. Coogee. 02 9315 7888, surfsidebackpackers.com.au
Chill Backpackers 328 Upper Roma St. 1800 851 875, chillbackpackers.com
Northern Greenhouse 117 Grafton St. 1800 000 541, northerngreenhouse.com.au
Glebe Point YHA 262-264 Glebe Point Road. Glebe. 02 9692 8418, yha.com.au
Bunk Backpackers Cnr Ann & Gipps Sts, Fortitude Valley. 1800 682 865, bunkbrisbane.com.au
melbourne stay
Boardrider Backpacker Rear 63, The Corso, Manly. 02 9977 3411 boardrider.com.au The Bunkhouse 35 Pine St, Manly. 1800 657 122,
hobart stay
Melbourne Central YHA 562 Flinders St. 03 9621 2523, yha.com.au
Nomads Beach House 2 39 Sheridan St. 1800 229 228, nomadshostels.com
Aegean Coogee Lodge 40 Coogee Bay Rd. Coogee. 04 0817 6634, aegeancoogee.com.au
Youth Shack 69 Mitchell St. 1300 793 302, youthshack.com.au
Bohemia Central Cairns 100 Sheridan St. 1800 558 589, bohemiacentral.com.au
Brisbane City Apartments 1800 110 443, brisbanecityapartments.com
Lochner’s Guesthouse 8 Gowrae Ave. Bondi. 02 9387 2162,
Hotel Bakpak Melbourne 167 Franklin St. 1800 645 200, hotelbakpak.com
The Deck Budget Accommodation 117 Harcourt Street, New Farm. 04 3377 7061 Tinbilly Travellers Cnr George and Herschel Sts.
All Nations Backpackers Hotel & Bar 2 Spencer St. 1800 222 238, allnations.com.au Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda. 1800 242 273, stayatbase.com Central Melbourne Accommodation 21 Bromham Place, Richmond.
Central City Backpackers 138 Collins St. 1800 811 507, centralbackpackers.com.au Hobart Hostel 41 Barrack St. 1300 252 192, hobarthostel.com
Pickled Frog 281 Liverpool St. 03 6234 7977, thepickledfrog.com Transit Backpackers 251 Liverpool St. 03 6231 2400, transitbackpackers.com
perth stay Billabong Backpackers Resort 381 Beaufort St. 08 9328 7720, billabongresort.com.au
adelaide stay
Britannia on William 253 William St, Northbridge. 08 9227 6000, perthbrittania.com Emperor’s Crown 85 Stirling St, Northbridge. 1800 991 553, emperorscrown.com.au
Adelaide Central YHA 135 Waymouth St. 08 8414 3010, yha.com.au
Globe Backpackers & City Oasis Resort 561 Wellington St. 08 9321 4080, globebackpackers.com.au
Adelaide Travellers Inn 220 Hutt St. 08 8224 0753, adelaidebackpackers.com.au
Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottlesloe. 08 9384 5111, oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au One World Backpackers 162 Aberdeen St, Northbridge. 1800 188 100, oneworldbackpackers.com.au
Annie’s Place 239 Franklin St. 1800 818 011, anniesplace.com.au Backpack Oz 144 Wakefield St. 1800 633 307, backpackoz.com.au Blue Galah Backpackers Lvl 1, 52-62, King William St. 08) 8231 9295, bluegalah.com.au
Perth City YHA 300 Wellington St. 08 9287 3333, yha.com.au The Old Swan Barracks 6 Francis St. 08 9428 0000, theoldswanbarracks.com Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, Northbridge. 08 9228 3755, undergroundbackpackers.com.au
Adelaide Oval Home to the Adelaide Backpackers Inn 112 Carrington St. 1800 24 77 25, adpi.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
tntdownunder.com
06_NZ96 56-66 SI.indd 65
65
23/4/13 11:39:33 PM
totallytrivial
follow us on
@tnt_downunder
who to blame
and their favourite snow field in nz Editor
Alex Harmon [Mt Ruapehu]
Staff writer Hugh Radojev [The Remarkables]
rory platt [Treble Cone]
aussie nz General rulesquiz football a) James Cook b) Abel Tasman c) Matthew Flinders d) Roger Black
Design & production Lisa Ferron [Coronet Peak]
a) Aotearoa b) New Holland c) Van Diemensland d) Staten Landt
Q
account manager
Justin Steinlauf [Cardrona]
checking out the comedy festival for some home grown kiwi humour, eh bru! sending a lucky winner to do not one, but seven bungy jumps in auckland and queenstown. lucky bugger getting geared up for the imminent snow season in kiwi land. yew!
66
Which is the North Island’s highest Q 8.mountain?
a) Sheep b) Crayfish c) Kiwi d) Whale
a) John Key b) Queen Elizabeth II c) George Bush d) Julia Gillard
sudoku puzzle 2
6
7
6
5 3
4
5
2
7
3
7
4
9
8
6 4
1 7
“Bach”
8
2
5
kiwi-ism
7 2
a) Mt Ruapehu b) Mt Hikurangi c) Mt Karioi d) Mt Tongariro
Q 9. What is NZ’s national symbol?
Q 5. Who is NZ’s head of state?
what we’re doing in may
Tom Cruise movie was filmed Q 7.in Which New Zealand? a) Mission: Impossible b) Taps c) The Last Samurai d) Oblivion
3. What is the Maori word for “Hi”? a) Aloha b) G’day c) Kia ora d) Talofa
in Oceania? a) Lake Taupo b) Lake Tekapo c) Lake Pukaki d) Lake Wanaka
Financial controller Trish Bailey [Queenstown]
Q 4. Which is the largest fresh water lake
marketing + events executive
georgina pengelly [Mt Doom]
a) Maori people b) Aboriginals c) Native Kiwis d) Mapuche people
2. Which name was given by this man to Q the land?
Business development Tom Wheeler [Broken Hills]
The indigenous people of NZ are called Q 6.the...?
Which European man discovered Q 1.New Zealand first?
answers: 1. b 2. d 3. c 4. a 5. b 6. a 7.c 8. a 9. c
Intern
3 2
If a Kiwi tells you they’re going to their bach for the weekend, it doesn’t mean they’re visiting their single, male friend. A bach in New Zealand is a holiday home. So be friends with that person!
tntdownunder.com
96_Triv.indd 66
24/04/13 10:09 PM
Untitled-1 1
13/02/13 8:46 AM
Untitled-1 1
22/04/13 7:06 PM