TNT New Zealand by TNT MAGAZINE

June - August 2013 Issue 97 tntdownunder.com

! WIN a ee d y

thr mighty campervan rental

warm up The best fun in NZâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winter

bells ringing Christchurch is back and better than ever

island time Your guide to the many isles of Fiji

w o n e k i l e m i t snow where to go w o n k e w and ew Zealand N in ff o g in k eason is kic + whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on evil dead film T he s n o w s music travel photos

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SWEET AS!

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ALEX HARMON EDITOR editor@tntdownunder.com

EDITOR’S LETTER Welcome to your winter edition of TNT New Zealand! We’ll still be producing your favourite monthly magazine in digital format but this jam-packed issue is going to tide you over during the chilly months. In it we bring you a bumper-guide to the snow season, as well as our top 10 things to do when the weather hits freezing point. We also check out the creative city of Christchurch. Let us know what you think!

THIS WEEK Nz Diary

Pubs

Film

hot shots

travel

competition

listings transport

listings north island

listings south island

listings travelling on

Trivia

Features Snow to Ground

Winter doesn’t just mean skiing when the snow falls in NZ

Unreal Dead

We talk to the director of the remake of the classic zombie flick Evil Dead

On the Mend

Christchurch has suffered, but the pretty city is bouncing back for the better

lift pass

The snow is falling and the ski fields are back in business – in a big way

Fiji Time

Sun, snorkel and swim with us in the beautiful islands of Fiji

trivial pursuits

Break your jersey out of storage, pull your beanie down over your head and hit the slopes with our winter quiz!

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nzDIARY

Editorial Editor Alex Harmon Staff writer Hugh Radojev Contributors Rachel Moore, Alasdair Morton, Jahn Vannisselroy Design and production Design and production manager Lisa Ferron Sales Account manager Justin Steinlauf Marketing and events executive Georgie 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 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 Queenstown Winter Festival Queenstown

This is where winter starts in New Zealand. The largest festival of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere has a long and proud tradition of bringing winter revellers to one of the most exciting destinations in all of New Zealand. Over 10 days there will be live music, art installations, comedy as well as fireworks and plenty of people hanging out to have a good time and possibly a few beers. You can also go bungy jumping too! TBA

June 21 – 30 Various places throughout Queenstown

the food show

1814 Relax Tour

Welly on a Plate

Make the most of this four day celebration in Auckland – the Kiwis know their onions. There are cooking demonstrations as well as the chance to tuck into the good stuff by tasting samples or sitting down for a proper feast.

Legendary Kiwi dub and reggae outfit take their brand new third labum on the road in June. 1814 have been described by many as on New Zealand’s best reggae bands and new album Relax has recieved universally positive reviews. Check them out!

Wellington celebrates its status as the culinary capital of New Zealand with two weeks of gastronomic delights at the annual Visa Wellington on a Plate. More han 100 different food and drink events. Maybe loosen the belt for this one.

August 1-4 ASB Showgrounds foodshow.co.nz

May 17 – June 22 Various, NZ wide 1814.co.nz

August 9–20 Various, Wellington wellingtononaplate.com

$25

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.

winterfestival.co.nz

$25

$74

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nzDIARY

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tough guy and gal challenge Do you consider yourself a bit of a hard nut? Do you like to squelch around in the mud just for the heck of it? You do? Well, get your tight buns to Auckland for this test of the fittest. The off-road tracks, natural and man-made obstacles and mud slides can crack the toughest of the tough. $60

Photos: Getty Images, Winter Festival Queenstown

June 22 to August 17 Woodhill toughguyandgal.co.nz

cadbury chocolate festival

russell birdman festival

This one is pretty self-explanatory but just in case you haven’t truly relished the goodness of Cadbury’s chocolate, this event will send you to heaven and back. To tempt your tastebuds there’s a chocolate degustation and chocolate facials, or channel your inner Wily Wonker on a tour of Cadbury World. The headline act is the Jaffa Race where 25,000 giant Jaffas roll down the world’s steepest street.

The annual Birdman competition is for human flying machines. That’s right, not motorised, catapulted or jet-propelled, they must be man-powered! Watch the Birdmen launch themselves off Russell Wharf in the stunning Bay of Islands. There’s plenty of other activities, including paper plane competitions, spaghetti eating contests, drag races, live music and great food.

July 20 – 26 Around Baldwin St

July 19 – 21 Russell Wharf

$59

chocolatecarnival.co.nz

free

northlandnz.com

SOBA MAster brewing course

banff mountain film festival

Matariki Festival

coromandel classic

If you would like to improve your understanding and hence brewing techniques FAST, this is the course for you. Held with master brewer Vincent Costanzo, this fun one day course will have you whipping up your own home brew in no time.

One of the most prestigious, mountain festivals in the world. Hot on the heels of the festival held every fall in Banff, Canada, you can watch the best action and adventure films of the year when the festival hits Queenstown in August.

This month-long festival begins in June and is a timehonoured event in Maori culture. As the Matariki stars rise above, the country gives thanks to the land, sea and sky with concerts, events and traditional celebrations.

Probably equally as challenging as the Tough Guy And Gal Challenge. This is a test of physical and mental endurance in one of NZ’s hidden playgrounds. The event of cycling, running and kayaking is open to all with online entries.

August 17 Black Dog Brewery, Wellington soba.org.nz

Various throughout June Various eventfinder.co.nz

June 21 – July 21 Various locations matarikifestival.org.nz

August 23–25 Thames Sailing Club coromandelclassic.co.nz

TBA

$15

free

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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

Winnies The Mall 7 Ballarat Street winnies.co.nz

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 World Bar Restaurant & Nightclub 27 Shotover St theworldbar.co.nz

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 spybar.co.nz kingsarms.co.nz The Library Bar Celsius 1 Pakenham Street East, The 125 Ormiston Road, Botany Viaduct, Auckland Junction thelibrarybar.co.nz celsiusbar.co.nz

Bellini Bar Hilton Hotel, Princes Wharf 147 Quay Street, Auckland bellini.co.nz Villager 606 Remuera Road, Remuera villager.co.nz Lolabar 212 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland lolabar.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

Monty’s Bar and Restaurant 12 Church Street montysbar.co.nz Surreal 7 Rees Street surrealbar.co.nz Pog Mahones Irish Bar 14 Rees Street pogmahones.co.nz Minus 5 88 Beach Street minus5icebar.com The Blue Door 18 Buchingham Street, Arrowtown thebluedoor.com.au Slainte Irish Bar 48A Shotover Street yha.co.nz

christchurchpubs Elevate 2 Colombo St, Cashmere elevatebar.co.nz

Darkroom The Establishment 13 Dixon Street, Te Aro, Wellington 336 St Asaph Street darkroombar.co.nz 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

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 Electric Avenue facebook.com/facebook 132 Courtenay Place, Te Aro Pierside Cafe and Bar electricavenue.co. 3 Brighton Mall, New Brighton nz pierside.co.nz Hashigo Zake Lyme Bar 25 Taranaki Street, 817 Colombo Street Te Aro ymebar.co.nz hashigozake.co.nz The Brewery Brewery Bar & 3 Garlands Road, Woolston Restaurant thetwistedhop.co.nz 4 Taranaki Street, Wellington Alvarados thebrewerybar. 77 Stevens Street co.nz alvarados.co.nz The Big Kumara CBD Bar 60 Dixon Street, Te 208 Madras Street, Aro cbdbar.co.nz bigkumara.com

q’town pubs

rotorua pubs

Lava Bar 1286 Arawa Street stayatbase.com

Altitude Bar & Café 49 Shotover Street The Grumpy Mole Saloon altitudebar.co.nz 1232 Arawa Street grumpymole.com Skybar BREW - Craft Beer Pub 26 Camp Street 1103 Tutanekai Street skybar.co.nz brewpub.co.nz Brazz On The Green Latitude 37 Bar 1 Athol Street 181-183 Maunganui Road brazz.co.nz 37.co.nz

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The Buddha Lounge 61B The Strand, Tauranga baysalsa.co.nz Scenic Cellars 37 Tuwharetoa Street, Taupo sceniccellars.co.nz Pig & Whistle 1182 Tutanekai Street pigandwhistle.co.nz The Olde Establishment 224 Mannering Street, Tokoroa finda.co.nz theUNDERGROUNDbar 1220 Hinemaru Street maoriculture.co.nz

nelson pubs Vic Mac’s Brewbar 281 Trafalgar Street vicbrewbar.co.nz The Free House 95 Collingwood Street thefreehouse.co.nz Club Waimea 345 Lower Queen Street, Richmond clubwaimea.co.nz

dunedin pubs The Bog Irish Bar 387 George Street thebog.co.nz Neesham Lounge Bar 678 George Street choicehotels.co.nz pubs Pequeno 50 Princes Street pequeno.co.nz Inch Bar 8 Bank Street, Opoho inchbar.co.nz

wanaka pubs Paradiso Cinema, Cafe & Bar 1 Ardmore Street paradiso.net.nz Lalaland Wanaka 99 Ardmore Street lalalandwanaka.co.nz Woodys Post Office Lane 33 Ardmore Street goodgroup.co.nz Barluga 33 Ardmore Street barluga.co.nz

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The Winter Festival proves there’s more to the snow than skiing

Snowed away If you think skiing and snowboarding is all you can do when the weather hits freezing point in New Zealand – think again Words: hugh Radojev + Rosemarie Marino

It’s that time of the year again, when the axis of the Earth turns and the seasons change and swap south to north. In Europe, grapes are ripening on the vine and EasyJet are readying themselves for another wave of pastyfaced Brits looking to burn themselves to a crisp in the first rays of sunshine. Over in Japan, spring bought the flowering of the famous cherry blossoms, millions of lilac and pink petals that have since blown away in the soft summer winds in the Land of 8

the Rising Sun. Meanwhile, for those of us living our lives beneath the equator, the air has grown colder and the wind has blown clean off the ice shelves in Antarctica. Shorts and thongs (jandals, if you prefer) have gone back into the drawer to be replaced by hoodies, jeans, gloves and beanies. A lot of people whinge and moan about the inevitable arrival of the colder winter months and may seek to head north for climates warmer, yet

we can’t help but wonder why? The only place better than New Zealand in summer is surely New Zealand in winter. Kiwis have learnt to embrace the colder months, making New Zealand the southern hemisphere’s premier winter travel destination. So we’ve had a look at a number of other (non-skiing related) activities that are all 100 per cent unique to New Zealand and are at their best when the mercury starts to drop.

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Horse Trekking Woah now, cool your boots. Don’t go jumping down our throats when we tell you to go out horse riding in the winter. Yes, we know that it does get cold in New Zealand come the middle months, but that just makes the whole equine experience all the more magical. For one thing, the horses grow their manes and coats out, so they look like they’re all wearing cute little furry overcoats, which is totally adorable! The scenery is also stunning. If you choose to do a trek in the North Island, definitely consider the beautiful whitesand beaches of the Bay of Plenty, where beautiful ice sculptures form in the shaded spots and shine like delicate jewels when the sun streaks through the branches. Or choose Aoraki, at the foot of the majestic Mount Cook cantering along rolling grasslands finely dappled with snow. Watch the sun rise in the shadow of New Zealand’s largest mountain. Chances are that if you’re willing to brave a little cold, you’ll find yourself being able to enjoy all this pristine loveliness in much smaller groups with much less crowding too. It’s a win-win situation in our opinion! Briars Horse Trek run treks ranging from half hour jaunts, to four-hour explorations which start at $35. briarshorsetrek.co.nz

Whale Watching

Photos: Tourism New Zealand, Winter Festival

I love whales, they’re possibly my favourite animal on the planet. They’re so majestic in the way they glide so effortlessly through the water despite their massive bulk. I particularly love humpback whales, with their enchanting songs and impressive breaching feats. Thankfully the Cook Strait in New Zealand is one of the best spots in the world to see them, particularly in winter. If it’s sperm whales you’re after, head on down to the famously picturesque town of Kaikoura, on the South Island’s eastern coast. Kaikoura has some of the best and most developed sperm whale watching facilities to be found anywhere on Earth. Sperm whales are the biggest of the toothed whales and are also the largest predators on the planet. They are so often rarely seen by human eyes, as they spend so much of their time deep in the depths of some of the world’s deepest, coldest oceans hunting for squid but Kaikoura is one of the only places anywhere where they can be seen year round, so close to land. Considering how rare it is for humans to see these amazing leviathans going about their business in their natural habitat, Kaikoura is an absolute must for anyone, whether you’re a whale watching enthusiast or a first timer. If you’re into slightly furrier sea creatures then Kaikoura won’t disappoint either. Huge colonies of seals can also seen frolicking on the rocky outcrops around the idyllic seaside town in winter, which makes for a wonderful, if somewhat noisy, spectacle. Kaikoura Whale Watch run 2.5 hour scenic tours year round. Tickets are $130.50 for adults. whalewatch.co.nz

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Queenstown Winter Festival

Milford Sound One of the most breathtakingly spots to be found anywhere in New Zealand (which is saying a lot) Milford Sound has to be seen to be believed. Cascading waterfalls, sheer rocky outcrops, snow capped peaks and glassy, glacial water bring thousands of visitors to this beautiful part of the world ever year and while it’s stunning in summer, it gets even better come the winter months. Take a glass roofed bus tour of the winding roads, or get out onto the sound itself on a ferry and explore the sound from Milford to Sandfly point. There’s also a purpose built underwater viewing area where you can marvel at the exquisite crops of black coral and the myriad underwater species that call this place home. In a country known for its beautiful scenery, Milford Sound is definitely one of the most picture perfect places to be found anywhere in New Zealand. Southern Discoveries run Milford Sound day trip/cruises from $69 p.p southerndiscoveries.co.nz

The festival’s motto is ‘winter starts here’ and, frankly, who are we to argue? This 10-day extravaganza in the adrenalin, adventure capital of New Zealand has become one of the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest celebrations of all things wintry. Started in 1975 as a quirky thing for the local population has blossomed year upon year, and now with a little hefty financial backing the 2013 festival is set to be the most action packed one yet. 2013’s Winter Festival will celebrate Queenstown’s unique culture and community with street parties, fireworks, international and local art, stands up comedy, a Mardi Gras, and plenty of Mountain Mayhem. There will also be some live music kicking around to warm the 45,000 or so revelers around town when the sun goes down. Tres magnifique. Of course while you’re in town celebrating all that culture, art and music you could always throw yourself off a high platform or two with some bungy chords around your feet… It’s just a suggestion. The Queenstown Winter Festival runs 21 – 30 June, more information and tickets available at winterfestival.co.nz

WELLINGTON MUSEUM OF NZ, TE PAPA TONGAREWA This iconic national art gallery and museum is known as Te Papa Tongarewa, meaning “the place of treasures of this land”. Located in Wellington, it is the perfect winter activity to warm your senses, enrich your mind with history and shelter from the cold and chill outside. At the start of this year, management announced that the museum would be split into two parts. One operating as it has in the past, and the other focusing just on the future. Expect to see collections of photography, fossils, textiles and archaeology including the world’s largest specimen of the rare ‘colossal squid’, weighing 495kgs! There is a daily 60-minute tour, so you can have every little wonder explained to you by a professional. Make sure you check out what events are on around the time you visit, as there are normally free live concert showcases or craft events happening on certain days. Price: Free Entry! (Prices apply to certain events) Tepapa.gov.nz

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CAVING For the ultimate in exploration and visual stimulation look no further then adventuring in the Waitomo caves. Start by weaving through the winding underground passages filled with stalactites as you gradually approach the sound of distant crashing waterfalls. While you are discovering the rich history, don’t forget to turn out the lights and view the glowworms at their best, as they will be showcasing a vivid colour spectrum amongst the limestone walls. There is a wide range of guided tour options, some are “design-your-own” style, flexible with what you would like to do. Just for a taste, think starry-eyed canal boat rides, rock climbing and the perfect photo op. The best bit? You can do it in any weather! Cost from $48. Waitomo.com

Franz Josef Glacier Guides 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, perfect for winter-warming. 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. 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. Full tuition and safety equipment is provided, so you can relax as you take in this natural wonder. Cost: $69 Where: Franz Josef, 5 hours from Queenstown franzjosefglacier.com

HanMer springs thermal pools Going to New Zealand and making a special stop to take a fancy bath might seem like a bit of a soft option but if you’ve never gone to a hot springs before, you’ll be amazed by how enjoyable it is. Hanmer Springs is a touch over 100km north of Christchurch and a short drive from a lush conservation park. Inside, you’ll find heated pools and natural, thermally heated baths, their temperatures ranging from 28 to 42 degrees. You can get a private bath if you want to relax in seclusion or you can float away in one of the three sulphur pools. If you’re tired and sore from travelling or feeling a bit under the weather after a big night on the tiles, you’ll be astounded by the restorative qualities of these natural hot tubs. The pools are open daily. A single entry will cost you $20, a further $10 will get you access to the slides. See hanmersprings.co.nz

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blackwater rafting You may have experienced whitewater rafting before, bouncing down a rocky current in the great outdoors. But, in Waitomo’s caves (the great indoors, right?) which draw tourists from the world over, you’ll have the chance to ride through echoing, underground caverns, putting a whole new spin on a familiar adventure sport. You’ll abseil down a sheer rockface into Waitomo’s netherworld before the surreal experience of floating through these vast catacombs in a rubber tyre tube. Deeper into the caves, you’ll encounter the resident glow worms, which light up the darkness like a Christmas tree. The caves were first explored more than 120 years ago, by an English surveyor and a Maori guide, who built a raft and floated into the network. So, in reality, you’ll be doing much the same, admittedly with more reliable lighting. The Black Odyssey rafting tour will cost you $157. See waitomo.com/black-water-rafting.aspx

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

hiking 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 all year round. From river canoes to skiing, prepare to see volcanoes, rivers, rainforests, canyons and a huge variety of flora and fauna. These 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 that all future generations can see and experience the same beautiful things you do. Cost: Prices vary. Located all around New Zealand hikingnewzealand.com

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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 queenstown

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Photos: Getty

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The dead shall rise again Evil Dead is the hotly anticipated new movie in the iconic series. Horror legend Bruce Campbell tells us about cranking up the gore

Photos: Getty

Words alasdair morton

Remaking old movies is Hollywood’s favoured pastime. But it’s a risky business, particularly when the revisited movie is a cult, fanatically adored horror film like The Evil Dead. So how do you retool it for a new audience? By getting the original star and director on board with a hotshot new filmmaker, and an Oscar-winning scriptwriter, that’s how. By getting the original star and director on board with a hotshot new filmmaker, and an Oscar-winning scriptwriter, that’s how. This was the approach favoured for the new version of Evil Dead: original star Bruce Campbell and director Sam Raimi are back as producers, Uruguayan Fede Alvarez is the man behind the lens, and Golden Baldiewinning screenwriter Diablo Cody polished the script. As Campbell explains when we catch up with him ahead of the film’s release: “Academy awards don’t hurt – and Cody allowed us middle-aged men to have a voice for younger people and to make these characters believable." Campbell has been synonymous with the franchise since, as a 21-year old, he and friend Raimi made what was then – and still is – one of the most notorious horror debuts ever. Two films followed, and a million questions since third franchise outing, 1992’s Army Of Darkness, as to when they’d make another. “They’ll never stop asking about when you’re making another Evil Dead movie,” Campbell reckons. The time for a new entry is now, however, with this retooling favouring a sequel approach rather than merely redoing the original. “None of us wanted a remake,” Campbell says of this new, ultra-horrific addition’s birth. “Sam was busy making Hollywood movies [Oz The Great And Powerful, most recently], I’d been busy making [TV show] Burn Notice for the last seven years and that’s how decades slip away. “Then Fede Alvarez came to Sam’s attention with his short Panic Attack, a clever effects-filled story. He was the one who started to put ideas into Sam’s head, and Sam then shared them with me and [producer] Rob Tapert. ”The ideas pitched to the group were reshaping the film

with a new story, a new group of characters and recasting the central role – Campbell’s Ash 30 years ago – as a female. “There were bits we wanted to keep – the creepy cabin, the evil book, and this group of youngsters trapped all night,”

“

You need the tools to torment people

”

he adds. “These are the hallmarks of the Evil Dead movies.” Jane Levy (TV’s Suburgatory) was cast as lead Mia, a smacked-out twentysomething who goes out to a cabin she and her brother (Shiloh Fernandez) went to as kids to shake loose the demons that have plagued her, with the help of a couple of friends (Jessica Lucas, Elizabeth Blackmore and Lou Taylor Pucci).

Got wood: the tree rape scene is back in the new Evil Dead

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Visionary: new director Fede Alvarez co-ordinates a rather bruised and bloody Jane Levy (Mia) on set Only, one of their number finds a human-skin-bound book amid the animal sacrifices in a basement that would make Leatherface shit himself, decides to read aloud its occult passages (obviously never seen a horror movie) and inadvertently unleashes a monstrous abomination that puts paid to their plans for a weekend escape in the woods. Times have changed since 1982. Horror moved through that decade’s slasher cycle, then onto Nineties post-modern spins like Scream and the Noughties fascination with drilling holes in kneecaps à la Eli Roth-fuelled torture porn. “Movies have certainly gotten more extreme,” Campbell somewhat surprisingly proclaims of the genre with which he is so readily associated. “Torture porn’s part of that, and I hope it ends swiftly. It dragged horror down to where people think it should be. There is room for all kinds of horror but it’s had an impact on how extreme some gore has been.” Campbell is clearly not a fan of the indefensible, but before we think he’s gone all soft on us in his middle-age, he adds: “But The Evil Dead was always ultra-gory for its day and this new one is ultra-gory for its day too. "We are making an Evil Dead movie here folks – it’s not a documentary!” So while the original is famous for boundary-pushing scenes – a tree encounter unlike that usually found on a rambling excursion for one – this new episode hardly shies away from what you’d expect from the series. “In the casting sessions we asked everyone, ‘Have you ever had this done to you? Have you ever been buried alive?’ We wanted to know if they could handle this stuff.” The ‘stuff’ they had to handle was pretty full on, even for this franchise. “They were all great,” Campbell says of his young wards who went to hell and pretty much stayed there for the duration of the film’s New Zealand shoot. “Especially Pucci, who’s pretty much the punchbag for the movie,” Campbell recalls, with either pride or malicious satisfaction at seeing someone else endure this time round. “He had more things done to him than any of the others: crowbars, nail guns, you name it. And Jessica Lucas

has a great scene in the bathroom where she cuts off half her face, and Elizabeth Blackmore has a scene without one of her arms. (It’ll make you look at kitchen appliances in a new light.) "They were all pushed to the limit and we appreciate the fact that they are still all talking to us. ”Director Alvarez was the one who brought up the nail gun as a weapon of choice. “You need tools to torment people and nail guns are pretty nasty if you’ve ever played around with one,” Campbell says, perhaps overestimating our familiarity with both power tools and demon-fighting paraphernalia. We haven’t played around with a nail gun, and are disinclined to do so at any point in the near future. Alvarez, who runs a special effects company in his native Uruguay, was responsible for keeping the pedal pressed to the bloody, entrails-covered floor, keeping much of the gore ‘in camera’. CGI may be ever-flashier these days, but it’s still too easily differentiated from reality by the human eye. Our optical lenses know what’s real and what’s not. “He wanted the film to have an old-school look,” Campbell explains. “It was a good call, because to the guy who saw this movie back in ‘82, it will look better than back then, but still has an old-fashioned feel.” As you can gather, it’s not for the faint-hearted, or for those of a nervous disposition, or anyone who has an easily affected upchuck reflex. But where it makes good on Dead fans’ longheld desires for a truly demonic new movie, it hasn’t given in to the clamouring for a Campbell cameo, a role he has frequently filled in recent Raimi movies (Spider-Man; Oz). “I didn’t want to throw people out of the movie,” he says of what is understandable but surely likely to disappoint some Dead-heads out there. “We wanted the movie to stand on its own; we didn’t want people to think that we were trying to be cute or clever.” Campbell needn’t worry. ‘Cute’ is not the word you would associate with a film in which a chainsaw makes a particularly close encounter with someone’s face, for an extended, claretsplattering period of time. You have been warned. ❚ Evil Dead is out May 16 on limited release. villagecinemas.com.au

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A bigger flop than the Titanic’s maiden voyage

the great gatsby FILM review by Alasdair Morton. Out May 30 Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton | M | 143mins

the call Review by Adele Rogers Halle Berry, Abigail Breslin, Morris Chestnut and Evie Thompson | MA | 96mins

In this suspense filled thriller, Academy Award winner Halle Berry plays Jordan, a retired 911 operator who inadvertently finds herself taking the call of an abducted teenager. In a gripping race against time Jordan works to find the girl and save her life. An exciting thriller that will have you at the edge of your seat, however walk out at the 92 minute mark as the final cheesy scene unfortunately dismisses all credibility. 20

One of the great American novels; an all star cast; a mega-studio budget; lavish stylist Baz Luhrmann at the helm – what could go wrong? A misjudged tone and heavy-handedness mostly in this underwhelming extravaganza. Originally slated for release last December then postponed for six months (an indication of anxiety or perfectionism, depending on which story you believe), Aussie Baz’s take on F Scott Fitzgerald’s roaring Twenties-set doomed romance, a tale of ambition, denial and never-to-be-fullfilled dreams, features all the filmmaker’s trademark extravagance. A contemporary score (Jay Z, Florence + The Machine, The XX) soundtracks jazz era New York as booze takes over, the party never ends, and the mysterious Jay Gatsby roams at the centre of it all. Yet while Luhrmann’s outlandishness occasionally works – one of Jay’s legendary Long Island mansion bashes is the sort of musical-led exuberance Baz excels at – here it conjures a feeling more of a gharish stage show than a living, breathing Twenties Big Apple. DiCaprio is a mysterious Gatsby, Mulligan seductive yet vulnerable as flapper Daisy Buchanan and Joel Edgerton brutish as her philandering husband Tom, but it’s Baz’s style that takes centre stage. Yet it’s cumbersome and plodding when it should be light-footed and reckless, as Fitzgerald’s prose regularly scrawls across the screen in partially-effective 3D. Baz’s drive for escapism sidelines real emotion, as the novel’s defeatist climax, our effort to beat life’s fatalistic inevitability, is rendered a slick dream that, like many reveries, is hard to recall once over. Good for: If you haven’t seen Redford’s ‘74 version and won’t be disappointed by comparisons

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HOTSHOTS

WINNER

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WINNER Breath Taker Davide Bonicci, 26, Italy

Davide says: “This is a photo I took at Lake Tekapo on the South Island of New Zealand on a recent snowboard trip. I love the colour of the water against the snow-capped mountains.”

we say: “This is a really beautiful photograph of a really beautiful part of the world. Lake Tekapo might not be one of the New Zealand’s deepest, but it definitely is one of the prettiest. Good work, Davide!”

RUNNER-UP

A Bridge too far James Richards, 19, UK

James says: “This was taken at near Waihi, just off Kauri Point Road on the North Island. The sky was a perfect blue I saw that the similar colours contrasted against the much darker boardwalk.” we say: “What an awesome photo. A lovely example of aspect and the vanishing point. Great effort, James.”

HOT TIPS: Framing

two northland tours

Good framing is fundamental to great photography, and makes the difference between boredom and fascination. Bear in mind that what you leave out is as important as what you put in. When shooting, you should think about what it is that makes this scene interesting for you, the photographer. Through the use of proper framing, you are allowing the viewer to see what you saw. Your choice of lens is therefore an important framing device: a macro lens can capture minute detail, while a wide–angle can be used to capture subect matter on a vast scale.

Davide 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

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Beardy in drag Virgin group founder Sir Richard Branson has made good on a bet he lost to Grand Prix rival Tony Fernandes. The billionaire entrepreneur made the wager with AirAsia chief executive two years ago, as to which of their Formula One teams would finish ahead of the other, the loser serving as a flight attendant aboard the winners airline. Branson’s team Virgin finished two places behind Fernandes’s. Branson allowed a stewardess to shave his legs in a Perth bar, before donning AirAsia hostess uniform, make up and a blonde wig for the flight from Australia to Malaysia. He kept his trademark beard, though.

Photos: Thinkstock

High Flyers Any witches on joy flights in Swaziland have been officially banned from flying above 150 meters above the ground. While witchcraft has rather fallen down the list of concerns in the western world, it is still very much feared and hated in Africa, where 9 out of 10 people are convinced by the existence of black magic. Last year a leading Swazi MP called for a hike in tax paid by witch doctors to help ease the cash-strapped country’s financial woes. No doubt those in the dark magic community thought that guy was a real son of a witch...

Air fair Comedian Kurt Braunohler has proven there’s people out there willing to part with their hard earned for art, as long as it means absolutely nothing other than the joke itself. The New Yorker got pledges of US$6820 through Kickstarter to hire a plane to write one of a choice of gags. The winner was “How do I land?” “I’m asking you to donate money so that I can hire a man in a plane to write stupid things with clouds in the sky,” he asked frankly. “I’m not trying to sell you anything, it’s just going to be there.” He apparently just wanted to make people happy!

Best candidates Two Brits are among the finalists heading Down Under to compete in the final stage of Tourism Australia’s Best Jobs in World contest. Holly Easterbrook and Rich Keam will be going up against a BBC reporter from Afghanistan, travel photographer from Brazil and adventure tour guide from Canada among others to win one of the highly coveted positions advertised. Tourism Australia managing director Andrew McEvoy said the campaign had got fantastic publicity, ”One girl ran through the Champs Elysees in Paris wearing a bikini and a koala head and it made the news.’’

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travellerstale the lost world

Teapot-shaped PAUL FRANKLIN journeyed to the centre of the Earth, abseiling into the dark Waitomo caves. If you fancy a change from New Zealand’s usual adrenaline activities, you should try the Waitomo caves. Meaning ‘water passing through a hole’, Waitomo is just a village with a pub, campsite, and a peculiar motel. In the 1800s, a bunch of waistcoatwearing chaps went to investigate the land’s suitability for a railroad, and almost fell down a bloody great hole. This sinkhole is about 100m deep, and is where my brother and I commenced our “Lost World Epic”. We were clad in rubber wetsuits that, if condoms, would be the opposite of fetherlite, latched to a slender cable and dropped into a mossy abyss. I’ve abseiled before, but it’s different when you aren’t leaning against a sturdy wall. You’re just dangling, easing out the rope, trying to find the balance between “too slow” and “fuck stop!”. The Lost World hole is aptly named, since (a) you can see how someone might lose it, and (b) it’s very Jurassic Park-like, with its prehistoric age and

verdant rainforest feel. This was the beginning, the literal scratch on the surface, of a 45km stretch of limestone caves that concede the volume of a double-decker bus each year to acid erosion. Once at the bottom, we scrambled up some hefty boulders and stopped to make amusing silhouettes against the backlit scene of the entrance behind. My “I’m a Little Teapot” one went done well; my brother’s “Karate Kid” had been done before. Venturing on, we saw the route we would’ve taken had it not recently rained. “Gushing” is the word. Plan B seemed preferable to drowning. We side-stepped that via some glowworms (larvae with glow-in-thedark poop) and braved a big ladder. After a surprisingly arduous climb that made my forearms ache like whipping a meringue for too long, we ducked and dived and occasionally crawled until we reached a rope and a hole. We clipped on, turned around, and abseiled down a drop of unknown height whilst a gush of cold water coursed over us. You know those

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‘invigorating’ shower gel adverts? Similar, minus the minty aroma. After I’d hit the bottom, fallen on to my arse and stood up again, I got my bearings (“I’m somewhere in a dark wet hole”) and splodged to one side. Once we were all down, grinning like soggy hyenas, the guides led us through more tricky channels and to another waterfall. We were made to tuck our limbs in and turn out our headlights ... then we dropped into darkness. Screaming like we were on a log flume ... without the log. Further on, past ancient whalebones and oyster fossils, we met another waterfall. But this one we were going up. We had the option of using a ladder to the side, or climb it. I did the latter, fishing for footholds through the icy spray. The first few metres were easy enough, but near the top was an overhang, and a narrow cleft to wriggle through. The guide at the top urged me on, but I found I was hindered not only by my belt buckle snagging in the tight gap, but my right boot, filled with water, which was surprisingly heavy to lift. With one big push and a tennis-player grunt, I made it. Then I crawled through a few more passages into yet another cave, flicked off my light and enjoyed a chocolate bar in total blackness. Eventually, after a relatively gentle ascent but still flanked by some vertiginous drops, we emerged, blinking, through a small leafy hole into the daylight. My immediate thoughts were, “I could do that all over again, right now”. But, next on the agenda was a hot shower, which I happily settled for. Once changed, we hopped back in the van to base, the sinkhole-filled field soon seeming like just any other New Zealand farm – grassy and full of sheep, with no hint as to the awesome fun that lay ‘Lost’ beneath.

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

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Christchurch south island

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Creative energy Christchurch has rebounded after its earthquakes with a new spirit. The city now offers a blend of the old and the new Words Jahn Vannisselroy

Christchurch is on the rebound. Between September 2010 and June 2011, the Garden City was struck by a series of high magnitude earthquakes. These devastated the CBD and much of the surrounding city, shaking its 380,000 residents to the core. However, New Zealanders are a hardy lot. There’s a creative mentality (locally referred to as the ‘number 8 wire mentality’) that runs through Kiwis. Cantabrians exemplify this in the way they’ve adapted their devastated surroundings into a liveable (and marketable) city. Innovative ideas have popped up all over the city – and show no signs of stopping as the people make the best of the hand that’s been dealt to them. It’s been a rough road, but through adversity comes strength and the city has that in spades. It also has some pretty good attractions, too. The city’s by no means perfect, but that’s the charm of visiting here. The people will welcome you, share their stories of surviving and thriving in the wake of a natural disaster, making a journey around Christchurch a one-of-a kind experience. Here’s a few of the Christchurch attractions you should check out next time you’re in New Zealand. But be warned: by the time you arrive, there’s likely to be a whole lot more that you’ll have to discover yourself. Check out christchurchnz.co.nz for all the latest.

Fill those gaps

This is no lecture, though. They have developed an extremely human commentary through a combination of personal stories and historical and contemporary geographical and architectural information. gapfiller.co.nz

Green among the grey There’s a reason Christchurch has always been known as the Garden City. Landscape design, green space and outdoor environment were always paramount in the design of the city. The quakes haven’t dampened that spirit. Greening The Rubble has created temporary public parks and gardens on sites of demolished buildings, usually in commercial streets. Just keep your eyes open and you’ll come across them before you know it. Check out the Mini-Park, which, by the time you visit, should have been relocated to the central city. Also, seek out the three-dimensional green roof project at Cramner Square. Who would have thought such awesome green spaces could be created in the middle of a city? Greening The Rubble is always looking for volunteers, so if you’re feeling charitable, give them a call and roll up your sleeves. This is volun-tourism at its most real. greeningtherubble.co.nz

The Revival pop-up bar

The charitable organisation Gapfiller brings events and activities to the city’s vacant land. The latest innovative ‘filler’ is a mini-golf course, which has its holes scattered throughout the inner city. Each of the nine stops provides information including an image of the building once upon the site, a tangible reminder of prequake Christchurch. What will you card as you learn your way round each quake spot? Next, take the 100-minute Transitional City Audio tour. Explore part of what was once the CBD on foot, discovering both notable and obscure sites, buildings and landmarks. The project was inspired and created by Cantabrians involved in fine and creative arts, geography/planning, architecture, and landscape architecture. tntdownunder.com

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Spring punting, how delightful

Shop with a difference Re:Start Mall, an icon of the Transitional City of Christchurch, is unlike anything you’ve seen before. It’s a shopping mall made up of colourful shipping containers, set in a funky landscaped area – and is a must-see when in Christchurch. With the “Harrods of Christchurch”, Ballantynes set as the anchor, there are quality retailers, delicious food outlets and entertainment everywhere you look. There’s even free wi-fi – but you won’t want to waste too much time on the web, as there’s so much going on around you. Re:START opened in October 2011, and it orgnisers have confirmed the mall will stay until at least March 2014. Check out Johnsons Grocery Store, a feature of Christchurch since 1945. It specialises in imported treats from all over the globe. Toi Toi and Hapa both have a range of awesome Kiwiana to take home to friends and family. To make the most of your visit, head down on Fridays, Saturday s and Sundays for the colourful Re: Start markets, which take place from 9am to 4pm. Who knows what bargains you’ll score. restart.org.nz

many more of the cities bars have all created their own niche market and continue to be very popular and successful. There’s too many to list here, so talk to the locals and have fun discovering one that suits your tastes. popupcity.co.nz

Hit the bars

Photos: Tourism Christchurch, Jahn Vannisselroy

Pop-up bars are now synonymous with international cities – think London and Sydney – and now Christchurch has got in on the act. When the quakes hit, Christchurch lost many of its hospo venues, but the people got creative yet again. Shipping containers and old buses were put to good use Seek out funky, quirky and innovative spaces, like Cargo Bar (cargobar.co.nz), set up in a shipping container and serving drinks in jam jars. Revival Bar (revivalbar.co.nz) features chairs and couches made out of suitcases, and can be moved within days as the building scene changes around it. Also, seek out Smash Palace (thesmashpalace.co.nz), a colourful rough diamond set up in a vacant lot. These and 30

The Pallet Pavilion

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Punt down the Avon Your punter, resplendent in braces, blazer and straw boater hat, will guide you down the Avon river. You’ll relax as you glide over the water’s surface, touring through the beautiful Hagley Park, admiring the pretty river banks, feeding the curious ducks and marvelling at the sun sparkling on the pristine water. Punting takes place all year round. During winter, you’ll be given a blanket and hot water bottle to stave off the icy chill. You’ll also get to lie back on velvet cushions as your punter fills you in on the route’s history. It’s all very European – and a great way to get a different perspective of the city. punting.co.nz

Head up high The Christchurch Gondola, which only recently re-opened, whizzes you almost a kilometre up to the city’s Port Hills. There you’ll find a collapsed crater rim of an extinct volcano that erupted about six million years ago. Looking out to the west, you’ll be able to see the breathtaking Southern Alps and to the east, the ocean and the sky stretch as far as your eyes can see. Magic stuff. At times, birds will fly beneath you as you take in the 360-degree views. This is another awesome way to get to know Christchurch. Don’t forget your camera. gondola.co.nz

The new cathedral The famous Christchurch Cathedral may have been partially demolished in the wake of the quakes, but that didn’t stop locals building something equally interesting.

The Transitional ‘Cardboard’ Cathedral - designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, who gave up his time for free - seats 700 and also houses concerts, exhibitions, and community events. The new Cathedral uses everything from cardboard tubes to timber beams, structural steel and concrete. It is the biggest of the city’s ‘emergency structures’ and when finally completed will also be one Christchurch safest buildings. It is being built to last more than 50 years and will comply with 100% of the earthquake code. You won’t see anything like this, anywhere. cardboardcathedral.org.nz

Adventure and relaxation A smooth 90 minutes’ drive north of Christchurch will provide your adrenaline fix for the journey. Jump on a quadbike and explore the landscape as you tear across a purpose-built track through streams, across meadows and into rugged bush on the huge Woodbank Station, a working farm. Or work a bit harder by taking part in a mountain bike tour around the area. You’ll need to rest after that one, though, so hit the Hamner Springs Thermal Pools and Spa for an evening of pure relaxation. There’s also archery and claybird shooting to test your skills at, but make sure you do that before, and not after, you’ve indulged on one of the many wine trails. The vineyards in the surrounding areas produce some very nice reisling, pinot noir, chardonnay and sauvignon Blanc. For the genuinely hardcore, there’s bungy jumping, rafting and jetboating on the Waiau River. Give it a go. You are in new Zealand, after all. hamneradventure.co.nz

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SNOW GUIDE north + south island

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Carving it up From New Zealand’s unique club scene to the big resorts and rail parks, here’s your guide to finding the white stuff this winter Words adele rogers

Cardrona The basics: This is a great mountain for the average skier or boarder but it’s especially good for those who want to try their hand at freestyle stuff, with four halfpipes and two terrain parks full of jumps and rails. I came out worse for wear but felt I had pushed myself that little extra because Cardrona’s technical courses have a smooth learning curve. With wide open spaces, there are also plenty of lines to be had on a powder day. Where to stay: Cardrona is placed closer to Wanaka than to Queenstown but if you’re also looking for the good nightlife stay in Queenstown. There is a wide a range of hostels and lodges to choose from.   Charge it: $97 will have you riding all day, while $70 will get you a half-day, but then you’ve missed out on the fresh stuff. cardrona.com Treble Cone The basics: It’s not unusual to see blue skies above and a foot-and-a half of snow beneath your toes at Treble Cone – perfect conditions to fall all over the place, as you try to find your mountain legs again. TC to the cool kids, this mountain, close to Wanaka in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, has excellent terrain, especially off-piste action. Be prepared to have your lungs explode from the crisp yet almost nonexistent air. There are runs for all levels of snow lovers, with a quaint chalet for the hot chocolate afterwards. There’s even a new Jazz Fun Park full of rails and jumps.  Where to stay: Wanaka is your nearest town, only 40 minutes away. Punching above its weight for fun, this town has a few sweet hostels, a lounge chair cinema and a good pub by the lake, even a skatepark for the gnarlies. Indeed, National Geographic Magazine recently named Wanaka as one of the world’s top 25 ski towns, the only southern hemisphere inclusion to make the list.  Charge it: Lift passes are $95 for a full day or $72 for a  halfday. treblecone.co.nz Snow Park The basics: There is nothing basic about Snow Park. Just as it sounds, this resort is one giant park: no real terrain here,

just every jump, halfpipe and rail imaginable with terrain features for every level of rider. What makes this place great is the vibe they create. A huge sound system pumps the hills so alive with music you’d think the Von Trapps were on the wheels of steel. Because you’re in the southern hemisphere, Snow Park has become a playground for the world’s best skiers and boarders in the northern off-season. Where to stay: Snow Park is right across the road from Cardrona so again, you’ve got the choice of Wanaka or Queenstown.  Charge it: A day pass is $88 or half a day for $67. As this is a specialist resort, there is no rental equipment, however you can hire gear from Wanaka or Queenstown.     snowparknz.com The Remarkables The basics: The Remarkables are deserving of their name, rising from Queenstown and surrounds like a wall of ice. It looks like you could fall from top to bottom with one leap. This all-round resort offers plenty of space to roam both in-bounds and off-piste. It has some steep and deep snow as well as the groomed corduroy. Slink down the hill after last runs and find yourself in aprés mode, by a fire in one of Queenstown’s top bars. Where to stay: Queenstown is directly below Remarks. Once you get down the windy road it’s just a five-minute drive. Back to the hostel, take off your pants and jacket then shower, jacket back on, happy hour. Charge it: A day pass is $93, afternoon pass is $63, or beginners only lift for $46.     nzski.com/remarkables Coronet Peak The basics: Kamikaze Kiwis have been skiing Coronet Peak for more than 50 years. It has a wide range of runs, a lil’ somethin’ for everyone, from halfpipes and parks to easydoes-it runs with a conveyer belt, in case, like many, you find the lift dismount the hardest part. Enjoy some sun on the patio in your fluoro one-piece and work on your goggle tan. Where to stay: Again, Queenstown is the place to be, just up the road. tntdownunder.com

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Mt Ruapehu looming in the distance Charge it: To spend the full day there is $97, while a half-day is $66, not to mention night skiing at $50. Mount Ruapehu The basics: Just south of Lake Taupo in Tongariro National Park, near Frodo’s Mt Doom, Mt Ruapehu is home to the biggest ski area in New Zealand, with a vertical drop of 722m. It can get pretty busy in the peak season because of its size and proximity to Auckland but it offers world class terrain with a wide array of runs whether you’re experienced or still using the “pizza, french fries” technique. The views are spectacular – volcanic peaks circle your vistas. Spring skiing at Ruapehu is fantastic, lasting until November on a good year, with warm weather. Where to stay: Whakapapa Village (pronounced fukapapa, tee hee) Ohakune and the National Park Village are all nearby and have a number of hostels, and camping if you’re sharing two people to a sleeping bag, brrr. Charge it: A day pass is $97, while half a day costs $68. mtruapehu.com Mount Hutt

Photos: Tourism New Zealand, Sensational Selwyn

The basics: Famous for its deep, dry snow and for having one of the longest seasons in Australasia, Mt Hutt makes the most of its location. The fields look back over the lush green Canterbury Plains and out to the Pacific Ocean. There’s a huge range of terrain, with plenty of space for novices to eat snow. Park monkeys are also guaranteed a rush with deathdefying jumps and rails to sample. Where to stay: Methven is a small town just down the hill with a couple of good backpackers; otherwise, Christchurch is a popular option. Charge it: A day pass is $93, with half the day costing $63. nzski.com/mthutt 34

Carving it up, Mt Hutt

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Mount Cheeseman The basics: Mount Cheeseman is duly renowned for being a tame ski field, great for a safe, beginners experience and also very affordable. Settled within an alpine basin the ski area is a serene wonderland of relaxed groomed runs, steeper trails and park features including jumps. Experienced riders can drop over the back to more adventurous off piste tracks leaving Mount Cheeseman practically devoid of intimidating speed-demons, so if you’re a beginner this place is your ultimate savior! Easy to maneuver T-Bars make accessing the mountain a breeze – a welcome relief to those who spend most of the day battling with unforgiving nutcracker tow-ropes. Where to stay: Castle Hill Village is only a couple of kilometers from the base of the access road offering houses and lodges, alternatively Methven is a one hour drive away.

Charge it: $79 will buy you the whole day, or $59 for a half day pass, but hold onto your hats – it is only $10 for the beginners lift or $62 for a beginners lift, lesson and hire package. mtcheeseman.com Craigieburn The basics: Some of New Zealand’s most challenging patrolled terrain is found at this ski field, one you would not refer to as a ‘resort’. Instead of latte-sipping posers, Craigieburn is reserved only for adrenalin seeking, hardcore ski enthusiasts. It certainly lives up to its label - ‘Steep, Deep and Cheap’, being a completely non groomed, entirely off piste experience. The steep narrow trails and natural powder bowls are reminiscent of terrain you would only find heli-skiing. For an expert rider – Craigieburn is unparalleled as the place to unleash your prowess on the difficult terrain of the Craigieburn Valley. The area does in fact accommodate multiple blue runs – just beware, they are severely under-rated in comparison to the triple black runs which are merely described as ‘suicidal’. Where to stay: There are bunk style rooms with shared facilities available on the mountain for the ultimate ski-in ski-out experience, otherwise you can find off mountain accommodation nearby. Failing that, the town of Springfield is only 45 kilometres away. Charge it: Only $72 for a full day pass. If you compare that to heli-skiing it’s a steal! craigieburn.co.nz Mount Olympus

Temple Basin, Selwyn

The basics: The motto of the Mount Olympus ski area is ‘Playground of the Gods’ – and this is certainly the spot to bring all of your virtuous friends as there is a little

G f

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Sensational Selwyn

something for everyone. The treeless ski area offers vast mountain skiing, gentle learners slopes and a wealth of backcountry glory for the adventurer. Although snowboarders may loathe the amount of flat cat-tracks between runs, a relaxed attitude and no crowds make this place supreme. Join your mates at the end of the day to share stories and bruises over a pint, or brave riders can partake in a spot of night skiing. Where to stay: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only a day trip from Methven, Springfield or Christchurch, or alternatively there is very basic and reasonably priced accommodation below the mountain. Charge it: $70 for a day pass, or jump on the beginners slope for only $10. mtolympus.co.nz Porters The basics: The closest ski area to Christchurch lies a tiny 89 kilometres away from the city. Only recently transformed into a commercial ski resort, Porters reputation is somewhat understated. Here youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find groomed runs, park terrain and scenery that will stop you in your tracks. There is something charming about Porters, where the atmosphere is contagiously friendly and welcoming. The relatively small ski field is a great choice for beginners, however even expert riders wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be disappointed, with the vertical drop offering long black runs such as Bluff Face and Big Mama. Where to stay: A comfortable day trip from Christchurch, otherwise look for a bed near Castlehill or Springfield. Charge it: A whole day pass will set you back $84, half a day for $59, plus there are great beginners packages and Two-forOne Mondays. skiporters.co.nz

Porters, great for beginners

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Queenstown? Snow?...Holiday! With a package for everyone, there’s snow excuse not to …

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Beqa Island

Images: Tourism Fiji, Myholidaycentre.com

fiji

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Images: Tourism Fiji, Myholidaycentre.com

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Found in Fiji We go in search of good surf and snorkel spots but end up being embraced by the warmth of the local Fijian people Words Rachael Moore

I’d heard many travellers’ tales about Fiji. The majority had echoed the typical backpacker island theme – hungover and too much sunbaking poolside before starting the cycle again in the cocktail bar at sunset. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m all for lazy afternoons in the sun, and Pina Colada is actually my middle name. However, I wasn’t after a token island-party holiday. I was searching for a real Fijian experience, one that wouldn’t fade with my hangover. At certain times in life, research and preparation really pays off. School exams are one such time, but I wasn’t intending on studying anything but coral reefs and coconuts. I was planning to travel Fiji like a local, experience the culture first-hand, and get way off the beaten track. The small island of Beqa (pronounced Bengga) had already been researched by my boyfriend for its untouched beauty and, more importantly, notorious surf break at nearby Frigate’s Passage. Covering an area of just 36km, situated 7.5km south of Navua, the closest town on the Fijian island of Viti Levu, there are just nine villages on Beqa, each with a population of about 200 people. So, after my pre-requisites were added, our search results delivered us an ace beachhouse. Owned and managed by local Fijian-Swiss couple Sam and Christine, the beach house has its own wonderful little beach with world-class coral reefs on its doorstep. The accommodation ranged from camping to private Fijian-style bures just metres from the shore. This was the place we’d been looking for – tropical island bliss at an affordable price.

Palmed off Stepping off the plane, I inhaled my first breath of sweet, warm Fijian air. Nadi (pronounced Nandy) airport was miniscule in comparison to any I’d seen before, only one storey high with a few narrow runways lined with tall palm trees. The rolling green hills were dotted with small basic houses, cows were randomly roaming the fields, and greeting us off the tarmac were three serenading Fijians in bright blue Hawaiian shirts.

The smiling trio swayed in unison as they strummed tiny ukuleles, their harmonic melody carrying throughout the airport. Welcome to Fiji. After a long rickety bus ride from Nadi, down through the lush green countryside to Pacific Harbour, we boarded an old brightly-coloured boat to take us across to Beqa Island. The afternoon sunshine was dancing on the sparkling Pacific as our boat finally pulled up to the sandy beachfront of Lawaki Beach House, Beqa Island. Owners Sam and Christine were waiting on the shore and waded in up to their knees to help us unload our bags and disembark onto the soft sand.

Frolicing Our first impressions of Lawaki exceeded all expectations. The quaint lapping beach was met by lush bouncy grass with a black river stone pathway leading up to the main house. Our smiling hosts were welcoming and gracious, offering us cocktails and buja mix to relax into our new surroundings. The main house was warm and cosy with a distinct rawness in its design. The wooden roof beams were decorated with coloured twine woven into patterns, while the walls were lined with green bamboo. A huge fishnet hung over the bar with various island treasures suspended for our viewing pleasure. With the crystal clear waters of Beqa Lagoon literally metres from our doorstep, there was a myriad of aquatic activities to keep us entertained. From surfing

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Isles of smiles: Escorted by giggling children

fluro and buzzing. But this is the all natural buzz of Fiji – no hedonistic Ibiza here. Giant blue starfish hung lazily over shells and coral on the rippled seafloor, looking like a Salvador Dali creation.

Village people

to diving, fishing to frolicking, it was quite easy to spend the entire day in the water. Snorkelling was definitely the highlight for me, the sights and sounds of the creatures below were just incredible. I donned the gawky goggles and snorkled at least twice a day to submerge my senses in the underwater wonderland of Beqa Lagoon. Coral of all shapes and sizes, in every colour of the rainbow, made a magical playground for a myriad of tropical marine life. Tiny turquoise iridescent fish darted back and forth like hundreds of party people at a rave, all

The local islanders of Beqa are warm, friendly, self-sufficient people who foster a strong sense of community and support each other however possible. During my pre-holiday correspondence with Christine, she had asked me to bring over any unwanted children’s books for the new school in a neighbouring village. I met the school principal, who was most grateful for my Dr Seuss and old geography text books. I was surprised to learn that, prior to the school’s completion three months ago, all children were sent to boarding school across the island when they turned six years old! The children loved the novelty of a blonde visitor in their village and I received a personal escort of 12 giggling children to walk me back around the shore for a final night of toasting marshmallows on the campfire. Beqa Island is one of the few places in the world where technology and progress are yet to interfere with tradition and lifestyle. The native flora and fauna are spectacular, and the nearby villages enable you to really experience Fiji as a local. Whether you choose to camp on the grass, stay in a dorm, or enjoy a luxurious beach bure, this is a place where you can’t help but forget about the world ‘back home’ and immerse yourself in the real Fiji. n

To book your next Fijian adventure, check out myholidaycentre.com.au or head to awesomefiji.com for more info

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fiji - the facts to know

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

NADI Nadi is where you will arrive in Fiji – it is on the west coast of the main island of Vitu Levu and is where you can see to all your “admin stuff” ie. banking, emailing, phoning home. Although many travellers head out pretty much straight away to more remote islands, exploring the mainland is becoming more popular, and with good reason.

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.

SUVA The capital city of Suva is a bustling, cosmopolitan South Pacific city and a total contrast to some of the tiny villages inland. Lush rainforest, wide, winding and swimmable rivers and crystal-clear waterfalls populate Vitu Levu’s interior. Find out about walks that will take the adventurous off the well-trodden paths and introduce you to the fascinating local culture.

Maintain water harvesting systems

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

MAMANUCAS ISLANDS Home to several of the more well-known resorts, these offer varying degrees of accommodation. They are a picturesque island group with beautiful, white sand and reef-fringed beaches. While the islands are relatively small, there are many daytime and evening activities to fill your days. Budget-style accommodation includes: South Sea Island, Beachcomber Island resort and Mana Island. All islands are set up for activities, including snorkelling (often free to guests), parasailing, jet skis, scuba diving and sailing. They are also a great place to do the tropical isle thing: lie on the beach, get sunburnt, drink cocktails and live it up until all hours.

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. For full details of holiday & volunteering programmes, accommodation and activities visit our website or facebook. com/vinakafiji or call +679 675 0500 AAF3982

YASAWAS ISLANDS These are a chain of 20 ancient volcanic islands. Here the pristine white sandy beaches have a backdrop of dramatic monoliths and, of course, are surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons. This is where you can experience the real Fiji. The accommodation is all village-based and in stunning settings and you are more likely to meet, mix and mingle with the locals. There are boats that run daily from Nadi and/or the islands within the Mamanucas group. Each one has backpackers’ accommodation – ideally book ahead as all have limited space as they are relatively small. All through the islands there are beautiful formations of soft and hard coral.

Alongside teachers, help children aged 3 to 13 with sport, play and extra curricular activities. Take part in the children & schools education programme.

GI VE BA CK , LAY BA CK volunteer@vinakafiji.org.fj

vinakafiji.org.fj

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gettingaround 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

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,

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

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Standby Cars 0800 789 059, standbycars.co.nz

Flexi-Pass Combines InterCity and Newmans. 0800 222 146, flexipass.co.nz

Kiwi Experience 09 336 4286 kiwiexperience.com

BOOK NOW!

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

zorbing This is another crazy New Zealand invention. The concept is quite simple: you climb into an inflated plastic sphere, strap yourself in and then roll head-over-heels downhill, rotating within the sphere at speeds of up to 30km per hour. You can do it dry or you can take a wash cycle where you’ll get soaked. You’ll get to it on a day trip from Auckland, just roll on down to the Agrodome near Rotorua. agrodome.co.nz

MUST-VISIT

whitewater sledging Near Rotorua, hit the grade 3 Kaituna River for $109 or the grade 5 Wairoa River for $299. Who needs a boat, eh? Perhaps one of the more novel and insane, yet brilliantly simple, adventure sports available. Started by some crazy Frenchmen back in the 70s, all you need is a wetsuit, helmet, life jacket, flippers, a healthy amount of guts, a small board and you’re off – flying through the rapids with a, er, fish’s eye view. kaitiaki.co.nz

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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 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.

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.

BOOK NOW!

Ahipara

endlesssummerlodge.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

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arrowtown A well-preserved little gold mining town which appears to be stuck in a time warp, Arrowtown is 20km north-east of Queenstown. The old sycamore trees dropping their leaves on the quaint little houses and shops on the main street are a picturesque sight in autumn. Don’t miss the former Chinese Settlement, at the western end of town, featuring some of the Chinese miners’ preserved huts. Ideal for a day trip from Queenstown, it’s only a 20 minute drive through some of the stunning Southern Alps (pictured).

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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! YHA Wellington city 292 Wakefield St, Wellington. Dorms from $28 Ultra clean, modern and wonderfully provisioned the YHA Wellington is one of NZ’s most visited and recommended hostels. Te Aro, Wellington

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

yha.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)

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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

Haruru Falls Picturesque falls offering swimming, camping and kayaking opportunities – and a pub!

Pentlands 22 Pentland Ave, Mt Eden. Dorms from $19.50 Located just out of the hustle and bustle of Auckland this is the perfect spot to spend a few relaxed days and explore the sights Auckland

pentlands.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)

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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

1271 Hinemaru St, Rotorua. Dorms from $17. With unlimited free Wi-Fi, a thermally heated spa and pool and a famously loose Saturday night pub crawl, this is a great place to be. Rotorua

crashpalace.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.

Crash Palace

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

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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

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

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

This rural town, two hours south of Auckland, got an injection of tourism after those three little Lord of the Rings films were made. Matamata suddenly became ‘Hobbiton’, and Peter Jackson was kind enough to leave most of the set for people to explore. A tour of the location will let you visit some of the leftover hobbit holes which were fully recreated for The Hobbit film instalments last year. The set is on a private farm, which also offers sheep shearing demonstrations and scenic views of the picturesque Kaimai ranges. The town of Matamata itself is famous for local dairy farming, skydiving over the ranges and the Firth Tower, which was constructed in the 1880s to provide a lookout over the beautiful countryside.

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

MataMata

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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

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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

whakatane do

rotorua 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 Off Road NZ Sprint car racing, Monster 4X4, 4WD Bush Safari and more. 07 332 5748, offroadnz.co.nz Polynesian Spa Historical hot mineral water bathing spa on the edge of Lake Rotorua. 07 348 1328, info@polynesianspa.co.nz

BOOK NOW! 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

Dive White 168 The Strand, 0800 348 394, divewhite.co.nz

Raftabout Whitewater rafting and sledging. 0800 723 822, raftabout.co.nz

Berkenhoff Lodge (BBH) 75 Scannell St, 07 378 4909, bhoff@reap.org.nz

White Island Tours Departs Whakatane daily. 0800 733 529

Skyline Skyrides Spectacular Get the best views and luge down 5km of tracks, or take the

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

@tnt_downunder activities and is a good base for venturing into the Tongariro National Park. Turangi Visitor Centre Ngawaka Place, 07 386 8999

turangi stay

Silver Fern Lodge Flash-Packers (VIP) Cnr Tamamutu & Kaimanawa Sts, 07 377 4929, silverfernlodges.co.nz

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 Taupo Urban Retreat 65 Heu Heu St, 0800 872 261, tur.co.nz Tiki Lodge 104 Tuwharetoa St, 0800 845 456, tikilodge.co.nz YHA Taupo 56 Kaimanawa St, 07 378 3311, yha.co.nz

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 On the southern shores of Lake Taupo, Turangi is known as the trout fishing capital of the world. It offers heaps of outdoor adventure

Extreme Backpackers (BBH) 26 Ngawaka Place, 07 386 8949, extremebackpackers.co.nz Riverstone Backpackers (BBH) 222 Tautahanga Rd, 07 386 7004, riverstonebackpackers.com

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

rangitikei

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The Rangitikei District is a top destination for adventure sports. Amongst stunning scenery, you can navigate grade five whitewater and take the leap of elasticated faith from an 80m bungy. The Stockmans Lodge (BBH) 9 Dixon Way, 06 388 1584, stockmanslodge@xtra.co.nz River Valley Dorms 06 388 1444, thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz

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

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.

opotiki

A summer holiday town which was once a large Maori settlement and the indigenous people maintain a strong presence here. 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

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

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

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

Aqua Lodge (BBH) 53 Nelson Cres, 06 835 4523, aquaback@inhb.co.nz

The Rotten Apple Backpackers (BBH) 114 Heretaunga St, 06 878 4363, rottenapple.co.nz

Criterion Art Deco Backpackers (VIP, Roamfree) 48 Emerson St, 06 835 2059, criterionartdeco.co.nz

Travellers Lodge Hastings (BBH) 608 St Aubyn St, West Hastings, 06 878 7108, tlodge.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

DOC office for hut bookings Lake Waikaremoana, 06 837 3900

napier

multitude of beautiful parks, gardens and farms.

hastings Hastings is 20km south of Napier and most notable for its fertile plains, which have given birth to a

word from the street

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 icecream in New Zealand. Chanel Backpackers 14-18 Herbert St,

MUST-VISIT

Rotorua

Damian Hall, UK Where in NZ have you been? I did a six-week circuit in a campervan your favourite day spot? Heck. In no particular order canyoning and skydiving in Wanaka, the Nevis and Canyon Swing in Queenstown, Lord of the Rings tours in the same region, hiking in Mt Cook and Mt aspiring National Parks, the west coast in general, seal swimming in Kaikoura and not forgetting Golden Bay and the Farewell Spit. It’s some place, the South Island. Favourite night spot? Couldn’t tell you where how or who exactly, but definitely Wellington.

This central North Island town is famous for its geothermal activity and hot spring mud pools, thanks to a number of regularly spouting geysers. It is nature at its most exciting, but also most pungent, with all the volcanic goings on being to blame for the town’s infamous sulphur scent. The most renowned geyser in the region, the Pohutu Geyser, which means ‘big splash or explosion’, usually erupts up to 30 metres high every hour. Just over a third of Rotorua’s population is Maori and the locals take full advantage of all the geothermal activity for their cooking and heating. It is also a great place to indulge in a spa treatment or two, with the bubbling mud pools being full of natural ingredients that are wonderful for the skin. No trip to Rotorua is complete without visiting the living thermal village, Whakarewarewa, to experience real Maori culture. The people of this village will welcome visitors and demonstrate how they utilise the geothermal activity for everyday living, as well as cooking a Hangi – which is the traditional method of using heated stones to cook food in a pit oven covered by earth. You can enjoy cultural performances and guided tours of the area and learn all there is to know about the shifting tectonic plates that New Zealand straddles at the earth and science facility.

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northisland

BOOK NOW!

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

06 378 2877

CHECK IN!

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

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

Palm House Backpackers (BBH) 06 278 6523, taranaki-bakpak.co.nz

Rowena’s Backpackers (VIP) 115 Brougham St. 0800 80 1414

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 New Plymouth Info Centre Puke Ariki Complex, St Aubyn Street, 06 759 6080, info@newplymouth.govt.nz

plymouth stay

335 Trafalgar Sq, Nelson. Dorms from $20 Simply one of the best spots to stay in the centre of beautiful Nelson, this lovely old building is a great place for a base camp.

Nelson

accentsonthepark.co.nz

must always notify the DOC. 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

Department of Conservation Pembroke Rd, 06 765 5144

Shoestring Backpackers (BBH) 48 Lemon St, 06 758 0404 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

plymouth do Taranaki Surf Charters 20 Beach Road, 025 592 306, taracoastal@hotmail.com

mt taranaki

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

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

The Camphouse (BBH) 6 Egmont Rd, 02 74 538 975, camphouse@taranaki-bakpak.co.nz

Whanganui National Park The major attraction is the Whanganui River, snaking through picturesque scenery. Explore with a kayak or riverboat tour.

Taranaki Accommodation Lodge (BBH) 7 Romeo St, Stratford, 06 765 5444, mttaranakilodge@hotmail.com

Wanganui Information Centre 101 Guyton St, 06 349 0508, info@wanganui.govt.nz

taranaki do Climbing Mount Taranaki It is possible to climb it and return to civilisation in one day, however the weather is notoriously volatile and you

Accents on the park

Eco Inn (BBH) 671 Kent Rd, between Egmont Village and New Plymouth on SH3. 06 752 2765

Seaspray House (BBH) 13 Weymouth St, 06 759 8934, seaspray@maxnet.co.nz

Department of Conservation Office Cnr Ingestre and St Hill Sts, 06 345 2402

palmerston nth

Palmerston North Visitor Centre The Square, 0800 626 292, palmerstonnorth@i-site.org Department of Conservation Office 717 Tremaine Ave, 06 350 9700 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 Ferry Tickets Online 186 Victoria St, 0800 500 660, ferrytickets.co.nz

welly stay Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. 04 801 5666 stayatbase.com Cambridge Hotel (BBH) 28 Cambridge Tce. 04 385 8829 cambridgehotel.co.nz Downtown Wellington Backpackers (BBH) 1 Bunny St. 04 473 8482 db@downtownbackpackers.co.nz

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 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 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 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, Te Papa’s living modern marae. Free entry, Cable St,

@tnt_downunder

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.

plimmerton Moana Lodge (BBH) 49 Moana Rd, 04 233 2010, moanalodge.co.nz

kapiti coast 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 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

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MUST-VISIT

wellington

Photo: TNT Images

Arguably New Zealand’s coolest city, the capital Wellington boasts an enviable nightlife and cultural scene. It’s very easy to lose a day in the country’s best museum, Te Papa, while the interesting mix of government employees and bohemians that make up the local population make it an always lively place for a night out, especially in the area around Cuba Street. Don’t miss getting the cable car up to the botanic gardens for some spectacular views over the city.

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

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

abel do Wilsons Abel Tasman Sea kayaking, water taxis and lodge accommodation. 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

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

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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

Michelle Brant, UK Seen much of nz? The glacier hike in Franz Joseph, exploring the crevasses, tunnels and caves was cool. your favourite spot? Northland. I love the beaches and seeing dolphins. At Cape Reinga we sand-boarded and rode horses. favourite night spot? The Ice Bar in Auckland was awesome. The whole place is carved out of ice – the bar, signs, glasses – everything.

Dunedin New Zealand’s oldest city Dunedin, located in the South Island’s south-east, has strong connections to Scotland, thanks to early settlers turning up in the area after finding the Australian climate too humid for their liking. The cooler coastal weather reminded them of home and even today this town is full of shops and reminders of the Scots culture. Even the name ‘Dunedin’ comes from the Gaelic word for Edinburgh. These days the city is a big student town and has an abundance of fresh seafood and local wildlife, with sea lions, fur seals and penguins all being easily spotted along the Otago coastline.

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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.

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

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

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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

abel tasman National Park Although this is the smallest of the many national parks in New Zealand, it is ideally located right at the top of the South Island which gives it a tempered climate all year round. There is a world famous coastal track to leisurely walk and plenty of golden sandy beaches along the way to explore or stop at for a refreshing dip. If you are looking to avoid the human species in your search for New Zealand wildlife, then there is a less frequented inland track. Sea kayaking and sailing are popular past times and sometimes may be the only way to reach a secluded beach obscured by the many magnificent granite outcrops. There are plenty of walking, kayaking combinations to keep visitors enthralled for days. Don’t forget your camping equipment, even though there is accommodation available full of creature comforts, sleeping under the stars is the best way to experience the spirit of the Abel Tasman.

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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

Jailhouse Accommodation 338 Lincoln Rd, Christchurch. Dorms from $27 This hostel is situated in an old prison building but is certainly not spartan. In a great central location too for Christchurch.

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

Addington, Christchruch 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

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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.

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wedding da y first child Fra nz Jos ef gla cie r adventu re! ALL EQUIPMENT PROVIDED HELI HIKES INCLUDE HOT POOLS ENTRY

Freephone: 0800 GUIDES www.franzjosefglacier.com

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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 youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll emerge in front of the frozen landscape that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

Accents on the park 335 Trafalgar Sq, Nelson. Dorms from $20 Simply one of the best spots to stay in the centre of beautiful Nelson, this lovely old building is a great place for a base camp.

Nelson

accentsonthepark.co.nz

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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! 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.

Queenstown

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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,

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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

Ovalau is a sexy island in the Lomaiviti Group in Fiji’s traditional heartland. Little Levuka is its biggest town and one of Fiji’s prettiest, hugging a strip of land between the sea and the slopes of Nandelaiovalau, the island’s single volcanic peak. Wander the old colonial streets and engage the locals in a chat – they’re some of the country’s friendliest. When you’ve had enough of Levuka, hike out on the dusty road towards Lovoni, an indigenous village inhabited by proud locals and snugly nestled in the island’s spectacular crater.

Photo: Tourism Fiji

ovalau island

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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 Sydney Central YHA 11 Rawson Place. CBD. 02 9218 9000 yha.com.au 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

Radeka Downunder

1 Oliver Street, Dorms from $35 The underground accommodation in Coober Pedy is an attraction in itself. Life in the rock is really the only practical way to escape the desert heat or winter cold.

Coober Pedy

radekadownunder.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

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totallytrivial

@tnt_downunder

who to blame

and their favourite winter activity in nz Editor

Alex Harmon [Pop-up bar hopping]

Staff writer Hugh Radojev [Whale watching]

Intern

rosemarie marino [Making crazy snowmen]

aussie nz Snow rules quizfootball a) Powdery b) Icy c) Wet d) Blue

Design & production Lisa Ferron [Drinking red wine]

a) Auckland b) Christchurch c) Queenstown d) Wellington

account manager

Justin Steinlauf [Snowboarding Cardrona]

checking out the winter festival in queenstown. snow, music, drinking + sports, it should be a national holiday hoping that our cousins across the ditch can hold their own during the british lions tour. time will tell enjoying the ski season. by all accounts it’s going to be a good one

a) Reverse c) Change-up

b) Switch d) Shimmy

Where will the next (2014) Winter Q 8.Olympics be held? a) Toronto b) Oslo c) Sochi d) Skidi

Q 9. Who is the Norse God of winter?

Q 5. What’s it called when a skiier falls? a) Yard sale c) Fall fool

What is it called when a Q 7.snowboarder changes stance?

b) Splat attack d) Ski stackard

a) Ullr b) Thor c) Loki d) Skidie

sudoku puzzle

answers: 1. a 2. c 3. d 4. b 5. a 6. a 7.b 8. c 9. a

what we’re doing in june

3. The first snowboard was called a... a) Snob b) Spank c) Sneat d) Snurfer

is usually the easiest? a) Blue b) Green c) Black d) Red

Financial controller Trish Bailey [Shotover Jet]

Q 4. On a ski field, which colour slope

marketing + events executive

georgina pengelly [Skiing]

a) Jake Burton Carpenter b) Andrew Billabong c) John Jones d) Sir Edmund Hillary

2. Which New Zealand city sits by Q Coronet Peak?

Business development Tom Wheeler [Thermal springs]

invented the modern form Q 6.of Who snowboarding?

the air is cold and dry, what type Q 1.of Ifsnow is made?

kiwi-ism

1 6

5 5

“Hongi”

9 1

5 9

8 1

This is a very intimate form of traditional Maori greeting. One person presses their nose to another’s. However, it’s probably a good idea to know the person before you get in their face.

tntdownunder.com

97_Triv.indd 66

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SWEET AS!

Phone 09 336 4286 or www.kiwiexperience.com

Split Apple Rock, Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

www.kiwiexperience.com

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