KiwiRail Our New Zealand Issue 31 Autumn 2016

I SSU E 3 1 / AU T UM N 2 0 1 6

Our New Zealand

INSIDE: The Splendour of Lake Wanaka The Coromandel – the Perfect Autumn Escape Wellington – New Zealand’s Culinary Capital

New Zealands luxury knitwear house‌

Purchase any Merinomink™ garment from the stores listed below and receive a free pair of gloves!* Fiordland House 3 Town Centre, Te Anau 03 249 7308

Woolworx 8 Rue Balguerie, Akaroa 03 304 7060

Woolpress 40 Buckingham St, Arrowtown 03 442 1355

Hanmer Woolshed Gallery 45 Amuri Avenue, Hanmer Springs 03 315 7377

Akaroa Woolshed Gallery 7 Church Street, Akaroa 03 304 8035

Kaikoura Woolshed Gallery 10 Beach Road, Kaikoura 03 319 7979

Simply New Zealand Stores Canterbury Museum, Rolleston Ave, Christchurch 03 366 9429 Level 1, Integrated Terminal, Christchurch Airport 03 358 7036 39 Halifax Street, Nelson 03 545 7501

*Presentation of valid Train or Ferry Ticket is needed to receive free gift offer. Colour may vary depending on availability. Offer ends 31st May 2016.

this issue page 65 HANMER SPRINGS ALPINE VILLAGE

page 43 NELSON TASMAN ROCKS YEAR ROUND

11. POWHIRI THE MAORI WELCOME

62. BREATHTAKING KAIKOURA

12. DAZZLING NEW ZEALAND AUTUMN 16. DISCOVER ‘THE GREAT WALKS’ 19. BUY NZ MADE 22. DINE WELLINGTON THE CULINARY CAPITAL 26. OUR AUTUMN ACCOMMODATION PICKS 28. THE COROMANDEL SIMPLY STUNNING

66. CHRISTCHURCH, AKAROA & BANKS PENINSULA

Regulars

70. THE MAGNIFICENT SOUTH MACKENZIE COUTRY AND AORAKI

4.

WELCOME ABOARD

73. WEST COAST TOTAL IMMERSION IN NATURE

6.

KIWIRAIL MAPS

8.

KIWIRAIL UPDATES

80. THE SPLENDOUR OF LAKE WANAKA

91. KIWIRAIL UPDATES 96

LETS GET SOCIAL

83. QUEENSTOWN AUTUMN GOLD 88. FABULOUS FIORDLAND

30. HAMILTON & WAIKATO THE HEART OF NEW ZEALAND 32. CREATIVE MANAWATU 33. WELCOME TO WELLINGTON

Our New Zealand Magazine

50. MARLBOROUGH SIMPLY BRILLIANT

this issue’s cover photo:

59. NEW ZEALAND’S PREMIER WINE REGION

Photo: Glendhu Bay, Lake Wanaka – image courtesy of Geoff Marks, Lake Wanaka Tourism

PUBLISHER Patrick McElligott PO Box 2173, Washdyke, Timaru patrick@inflightpublish.co.nz

ADVERTISING Michelle Agnew PO Box 2173, Washdyke, Timaru P: 0274 664 384 michelle@inflightpublish.co.nz DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Penny Thompson

EDITOR Joanna May Joanna@inflightpublish.co.nz

PRINTING Format Print, Wellington

DISCLAIMER: Views expressed in the Inflight magazine are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. No responsibility is accepted by the publisher or the printer for the accuracy of information contained in the text or advertisements. Advertisements must comply with the relevant Trade Practices Act 1979. Responsibility for compliance with the act rests with the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisement. Neither the publisher nor the editor accepts responsibility for advertisements.

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K IWI R AI L SCE NI C U PD ATES

WELCOME TO OUR New Zealand Te ¯na ¯ koutou. Nau mai ki Aotearoa.

Hello and welcome aboard with KiwiRail Scenic Journeys.

As a business, Scenic Journeys is focused on growing rail travels share of New Zealand’s tourism market and this summer has seen some fantastic results. Passenger numbers on both the Northern Explorer and Coastal Pacific were up 20 per cent on last year while the TranzAlpine service grew by 10 per cent on the previous year. These results reflect the growing popularity of rail travel and the performance of our Scenic Journeys products.

Tena koutou. Nau mai ki Aotearoa.

Scenic Journeys trains travel through remote national parks, across spectacular volcanic landscapes, over braided river valleys, alpine passes and along rugged coastlines. While each of our long-distance train trips has its own personality, they all offer sights that you wouldn’t always get to see from the road. They also offer relaxation and comfort and a chance to explore attractions along the way.

As we say goodbye to summer it does not mean it is the end of the Scenic Journeys experience for the year. Both the Northern Explorer and TranzAlpine continue to operate through the winter months and provide spectacular mountain views of the Volcanic Plateau and Southern Alps respectively.

The Coastal Pacific continues its extended summer season through to 1 May and resumes service again on 23 September 2016, Coastal Pacific provides a range of travel

options including travelling to Kaikoura to go whale watching or sampling the abundance of seafood that this attractive seaside town has to offer before heading back to Christchurch in time for dinner. You could also travel to Blenheim, go winetasting in Marlborough, or connect with the Interislander ferries or Sounds Air flights from Picton to the capital.

remembering – and something KiwiRail Scenic Journeys takes pride in delivering to our passengers.

Thank you for joining us onboard today and I trust that you will enjoy a memorable experience. Be sure to ask any of our friendly staff for assistance that you may require.

If you are travelling on the Northern Explorer today, I hope you enjoy joining us or disembarking through our new Auckland Station at The Strand. This facility was purpose built for the Northern Explorer to avoid congestion at Britomart whist the Auckland City Rail Link is under construction.

KiwiRail Scenic Journeys is all about creating a memorable tourism experience through a combination of great service, unique sights and offering a wonderful selection of New Zealand wine and food to enjoy along the way. These are all crucial elements to producing a travel experience worth

Gavin Rutherford National Manager KiwiRail Scenic Journeys

KIW IR AIL S CEN IC UP D AT E S

welcome aboard Thanks for joining us and choosing to experience New Zealand with KiwiRail Scenic.

We want to make your journey as safe and comfortable as possible, so here’s some useful information for your journey.

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CAFE

commentary

VIE W ING DECK

Our fully licensed café is open throughout the day with a great selection of snacks, meals and beverages to enjoy. A full menu is available in your seat pocket.

Audio commentary is available at your seat. Simply plug in your headphones and select channel 2 (English) or channel 3 (Mandarin).

A notification sound will indicate when commentary is about to commence.

Your crew will advise when viewing decks are open throughout the journey. Please follow safety guidelines and ensure children are supervised when visiting the viewing deck.

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SA F E T Y

Kids Ente rta inment

TOI LET S

Your safety is our first priority.

Please read the safety card in your seat pocket, and pay close attention to instructions from your crew throughout the journey.

Kids activity packs are available to purchase from the café. These fun zip-up packs include cards, colouringin books, origami and other activities.

These are all suitable for children aged 3-14.

Toilets are located at the end of each carriage, and an accessible toilet is located in the café carriage.

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YOUR ON-BOARD CREW

SIT BACK & RELAX

FEEDBACK

Our crew members are trained to make your journey as safe and comfortable as possible, please let them know if you require any assistance. Emergency help buttons are located in each carriage.

Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.

Thanks for choosing to travel with KiwiRail Scenic. We hope you enjoy your time on board.

If you provided an email address when booking, a post-travel survey will make its way to your inbox. Your feedback is important to us, so let us know what you think! You can also share your experiences on TripAdvisor.

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KI W I R AI L SCE NI C UP DATES

OUR LONG DISTANCE SCENIC RAIL NETWORK CHRISTCHURCH - ARTHURS PASS - GREYMOUTH

CHRISTCHURCH - PICTON - WELLINGTON

15. The Canterbury Plains, at 750,000 hectares, are New Zealand’s largest area of flat land.

The plains were formed over millions of years by rivers such as the Waimakariri carrying material from the mountains and depositing it as the river flow decreases.

11. Lake Grassmere is a shallow lagoon sheltered from the open sea by a barrier beach and sand dunes. Its high salinity, along with the warm, prevailing winds, makes it ideal for natural salt extraction. Nearly half of New Zealand’s domestic salt comes from here.

16. The Rakaia River is what is known as a braided river (these are rivers that carry large amounts of sediment). As it drops, the sediment and slope decreases and the river carves a myriad of channels into the riverbed (because water always looks for the easiest path downhill).

12. The Hikurangi Trench, just 1.6 kilometres off the coast of Kaikoura, is a deep-sea trench formed in the subduction zone where one of the Earth’s plates plunges under another. Between 1,000 and 2,000 metres deep, this trench is a rich source of marine life which makes it an attractive feeding ground for the sperm whale.

17. The ice-fed Waimakariri River is the largest of the North Canterbury Rivers flowing for 151 kms from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean.

18. At 920 metres, Arthur’s Pass is the highest of only three roads crossing the Southern Alps.

First travelled by Ma¯ori in search of the precious West Coast pounamu (greenstone), it was named after Sir Arthur Dudley Dobson who led the first party of Europeans across it in 1864.

19. Lake Brunner is the largest lake in the northwestern South Island. Known for its brown trout fishing, the lake empties into the Arnold River which, in turn, flows into the Grey River.

13. Rising dramatically from the sea, the Inland Kaikoura Ranges and Seaward Kaikoura ranges are parallel ranges formed along the Alpine Fault. The Inland Kaikouras included the highest mountains in the country north of the Aoraki/ Mt Cook region, the highest in this area being Tapuae-o-Uenuku (2,884 metres).

14. The North Canterbury Plains are formed from moraine gravels deposited by glaciers about three million years ago. The porous alluvial material combined with the drying northwesterly winds make the land very prone to drought.

20. Otira is the site of both the Otira Tunnel and the Otira Viaduct. When the Otira Tunnel was finally completed in 1923 it was the longest railway tunnel in the British Empire. Remarkably, while most rail tunnels are level, the Otira Tunnel has a gradient of 1 in 33.

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23. At 3,754 metres, Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand’s tallest mountain. The height was reduced by 10 metres when approximately 10 million cubic metres of rock and ice fell off the mountain on December 14th, 1991.

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QUEENSTOWN

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greymouth

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21. Darfield is the main town between Christchurch and the West Coast. It has a particular weather phenomenon where it often has an arch of cloud above it, caused by the condensation of water particles channelled upwards over the Southern Alps.

22. The North-West ranges, comprising the Paparoa, Victoria and north-west Nelson ranges, are not as high as neighbouring mountains but do contain New Zealand’s oldest sedimentary and volcanic rocks and its oldest fossils.

TAPUAE-O-UENUKU

WAIAU RIVER

Otira arthur’s pass

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HURUNUI RIVER

cass

waipara rangiora

springfield

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rolleston

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LAKE PUKAKI

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WAIMAKARIRI RIVER

darfield

FOX GLACIER

AORAKI/MT COOK

mina

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LAKE TEKAPO

christchurch

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RAKAIA RIVER

RANGITATA RIVER

BANKS PENINSULA

AUCKLAND

KIW IR AIL S CEN IC U PDAT E S

pukekohe waikato river

1 huntly

hamilton

tasman sea

lake rotorua

otorohanga

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te kuiti

4 lake taupo

taumarunui

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raurimu spiral

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mt tongariro

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national park

mt ngauruhoe

mt ruapehu

ohakune

1. The Waikato River is the longest river

in New Zealand, running for 425 kilometres.

waiouru

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taihape

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marton

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palmerston north

AR TA R

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levin

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blenheim

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WELLINGTON COOK STRAIT

pacific ocean

seddon

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3. Raurimu Spiral, built in 1898, is a feat of civil engineering that allows trains to conquer the 132 metre height difference between the Whanganui River valley and the Volcanic Plateau. The train travels 6.8 kilometres which, in a straight line, is just two kilometres long.

5. Mt Ruapehu, nearly half a million years old, is the highest peak (2,797 metres) in the North Island and the only one with glaciers.

6. Mt Ngauruhoe (2,287 metres), erupted 45 times in the 20th Century, most recently in 1977.

Its Ma ¯ori name means ‘throwing heated stones’.

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D GE ARRAN AW A SEOUR K AI

2. The Waitomo Caves is an ancient labyrinth of limestone caves featuring native New Zealand glow worms. The word Waitomo comes from wai meaning water and tomo meaning a sinkhole; it can be translated as water passing through a hole.

4. Lake Taupo lies in a caldera caused by a huge volcanic eruption. It has erupted 28 times in the last 27,000 years. The most recent eruption, in 180 AD, had an eruption column that turned the sky red over Rome and China.

paraparaumu

picton

AUCKLAND - NATIONAL PARK - WELLINGTON

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mt taranaki

7. Mt Tongariro (1,967 metres), is the lowest of the three central North Island volcanoes. Known as a truncated volcano, it has a number of separate peaks. Its only major active vent is Ngauruhoe which is considered a separate mountain.

CLARENCE RIVER

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KAIKOURA

8. Mt Taranaki (2,518 metres), is a stratovolcano and one of the most symmetrical volcanoes in the world. Because of its resemblance to Mt Fuji, Mt Taranaki was used as the backdrop for the movie The Last Samurai.

NORTHERN EXPLORER interislander FERRY COASTAL PACIFIC TRANZ ALPINE

9. The Tararua Ranges are created by the same uplifting process that formed the Southern Alps.

Stretching 100 kilometres from the Manawatu Gorge to the Rimutakas in the south, they are part of the ‘backbone’ of the North Island.

10. Kapiti Island, eight kilometres off the coast, is known today as a rodent-free, bird and marine sanctuary. In earlier times, it was home to the great chief, Te Rauparaha and later used as a whaling base when 2,000 people lived there.

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KI W I R AI L SCE NI C UP DATES

Petone Railway Station ANZAC 100th Anniversary.

This year KiwiRail marks the 100th Anniversary of one of the first official ANZAC Memorial held on New Zealand soil at Petone Railway Station.

2016’s ANZAC Day service plans to be quite an occasion with the Passchendaele Steam train arriving at the station allowing locals to enjoy rides on this special commemorative train built by the New Zealand Railways to remember the 447 railwaymen lost in the Great War. Representatives from the New Zealand Government, Australian High Commission and various military officials will also attend this special ANZAC Day service.

Along with the steam train, also central to the event is the 21-metreANZAC Memorial Flagstaff made of Australian hardwood and New Zealand kauri that was erected at the station in 1916 to symbolise the unity between New Zealand and Australian troops.

More than 5000 NZ railwaymen joined the military between 1914 and 1918 and played a vital role in the Railway Department’s contribution to the war effort and a total of 37 NZ Railway employees were killed at Gallipoli.

During the eight-month campaign, more than 2700 New Zealanders were killed at Gallipoli, and many more soldiers were wounded.

Gallipoli saw New Zealanders and Australians fighting alongside each other displaying courage, tenacity, loyalty and skill that ensured a lasting bond between the two countries that still remains today.

What: Petone Railway Station 100th Anniversary ANZAC Service Where: Petone Railway Station

The flagstaff was a project between railway workshop employees at Petone and Hornsby, New South Wales, Australia to honour of their workmates who had fought in the Gallipoli campaign.

In 1916, at Petone, in front of hundreds of railway workers, their families, and many people who had travelled from Wellington, the then Prime Minster Mr Massey unfurled the Australian Red Ensign provided by the Hornsby workers on the crossbar of the flagpole, opposite a New Zealand flag made by the Petone Railways Workshops Trimmers Department. A similar event occurred simultaneously at Hornsby.

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When: Monday 25 April 2016, 7am-8.15am

KIW IR AIL S CEN IC U PDATE S

Wellington’s Great War Exhibition The Great War Exhibition commemorates the very significant part that New Zealand played in the First World War. 18,166 lives were lost as part of New Zealand’s involvement in the First World War; a very significant loss for a small county like New Zealand, which had a population of just over a million at the time.

New Zealand’s very nature and identity was altered by the sacrifice, challenges and war-time experiences of its citizens both home and abroad.

New Zealanders and visitors to the Great War Exhibition can embark on a journey rich in personal stories and highly emotional of those gritty and trying times and the , challenges and sacrifices New Zealanders underwent both at home and on the battlefields of Europe.

With support from the New Zealand Government, Sir Peter Jackson and Sir Peter’s talented team at Wingnut Films, The Exhibition will offer a unique opportunity for New Zealanders to see and feel a special part of their history from 1914 through to 1918. For visitors to these shores it will offer a remarkable chance to see an important part of New Zealand history whilst getting a glimpse of what it is to be a New Zealander.

What: The Great War Exhibition Where: Dominion Museum Building, Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, Wellington When: Everyday from 9am-6pm

All New Zealanders honour those lost in the Great War

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K IW I R AI L SCE NI C U PDATES

UPGRADE YOUR JOURNEY::

kiwirail scenic escape packages We’ve taken our three iconic train journeys and combined them with exciting activities and accommodation options beyond the tracks. Here’s a selection of our Scenic Escapes.

For the full offering or to make a booking head to kiwirailscenic.co.nz/scenic-escapes.

KAIKOURA WHALE WATCHING COASTAL PACIFIC Get up close and personal with whales and other marine wildlife on this must-do experience in Kaikoura. Available as a day trip from Christchurch, or an overnight trip from Christchurch or Wellington.

FROM $285 per person

WAITOMO CAVES, HOBBITON and TE PUIA Northern Explorer Combine the iconic Northern Explorer train journey with tours of these three amazing activities plus more, including accommodation and transfers. Three or four day itineraries are available departing from Auckland and Wellington.

FROM $1098 per person SHARE TWIN

PUNAKAIKI and SHANTYTOWN Tranz A lpine Explore the rugged West Coast including guided bush and beach walks at Punakaiki, and re-live old mining days at the historical Shantytown village. Two day return options from Christchurch are available.

FROM $545 per person share twin

NATIONAL PARK BREAK Northern Explorer Explore the wilderness of this world heritage national park, perfect for outdoor adventurers or those looking to simply escape the city. A range of itineraries and accommodation options and are available from Auckland, Hamilton, Palmerston North and Wellington.

FROM $330 per person SHARE TWIN

WELCOME

Powhiri The Maori Welcome

Maori are the tangata whenua (indigenous people of the land) of New Zealand and their culture is an integral part of New Zealand life.

About 15 per cent of the country’s population of 4.2 million is of Māori descent. Māori are a tribal people and their tribes are known as iwi.

Visitors to New Zealand are presented with many opportunities to experience Māori culture first-hand. A central part of Māori protocol, is a ceremony of welcome involving speeches, dancing, singing and hongi.

While traditionally used to welcome visitors on to marae - the sacred space or courtyard usually in front of Māori meeting houses - the ceremony is also commonly seen in everyday New Zealand life.

Pōwhiri can happen anywhere that tangata whenua (hosts) wish to formally greet manuhiri (visitors).

Spiritual or Religious Journey The pōwhiri signifies two groups coming together, negotiating the terms of their engagement and finishing with guests joining their hosts as one.

It is a spiritual or religious journey where gods, heaven and earth are acknowledged, ancestors remembered and kinship ties reinforced. It is also when intentions are ascertained, issues debated and lobbying carried out.

Wero - The Challenge For most observers, the taki or wero, an aggressive challenge of the visitor at the beginning of the ceremony, is the most spectacular part of the pōwhiri.

During this part of the ceremony, three

Māori warriors will advance cautiously towards the guests with ceremonial weapons, and perform threatening gestures and grimaces, calling out battle screams and generally giving an impression of being ready to explode into violence against the visitors at any moment.

Historically, this has roots in both showing off the martial prowess of the iwi (tribal) warriors, as well as testing the steadfastness of the visitors.

By accepting the rautapu, a symbolic offering - usually a leaf or carved effigy - is placed on the ground by the leader before the visitors, this part of the ceremony is concluded.

Karanga - The Call On some occasions, the pōwhiri begins before the karanga (call); at other times, it begins after the karanga has started. At some point the karanga and the pōwhiri will take place at the same time.

For the pōwhiri, the kai karanga (female caller) usually stands to the side and slightly to the front of the tangata whenua.

Those who take part in the pōwhiri include elders and young people - men and women.

After the manuhiri and tangata whenua are seated, both sides will present speakers, beginning with the tangata whenua. The ceremonial tapu (sacred separation) is lifted when tangata whenua and manuhiri make physical contact through hongi (pressing of noses) or hariru (shaking hands).

The Words of Te Rauparaha Leader Ringa pakia!

Slap the hands against the thighs!

Uma tiraha!

Puff out the chest!

Turi whatia!

Bend the knees!

Hope whai ake!

Let the hip follow!

Waewae takahia kia kino!

Stamp the feet as hard as you can!

All Ka mate, ka mate I die, I die, Ka ora’ Ka ora’ I live, I live, Ka mate, ka mate I die, I die Ka ora’ Ka ora’ I live, I live, Tenei te tangata puhuruhuru This is the hairy man Nana i tiki mai whakawhiti te ra Who caused the sun to shine again for me Upane...Upane Up the ladder...Up the ladder Upane Kaupane” Up to the top Whiti te ra,!

The sun shines!

He! He!

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NEW ZEALAND AUTUMN

Dazzling Autumn

By JO MAY Autumn in New Zealand runs from March to May – a period when most locals have returned to work after the long summer break leaving an uncrowded outdoors to inspire a wide variety of adventures.

With the arrival of autumn, New Zealand basks in some of it’s most settled temperatures and conditions while the landscape changes into burnished seasonal colours making it an ideal time for visitors.

Long, sunny days tend to linger long into New Zealand’s autumn, and with average high temperatures of between 18C and 25C, you’ll hardly notice summer has ‘officially’ ended. Nights begin to get chilly around mid-April.

One of the most special things about autumn in New Zealand is the colours – especially in the Hawke’s Bay and Central Otago regions. Deciduous trees turn brilliant hues of yellow, gold and hot orange, and it’s all set against a sky that seems far too blue to be true.

Relax in one of the many picturesque vineyard wineries, feast on bountiful local delicacies, get actively involved in sporting events, or enjoy an arts or music festival - all while taking in the diverse and beautiful New Zealand landscape and sharing the experience with friendly locals.

During March and April it’s still hot enough to swim in most places. Cool down with a dip in the ocean after exploring the coastline. Salt water fishing is exceptional from March to May. Take a local charter boat or dangle a line off the coast.

Autumn adventures – a selection of experiences from the North Island to the South Island of New Zealand are as follows: 12

North Island Hamilton Waikato – Hamilton Gardens Award winning Hamilton Gardens – which is really a series of intricate themed garden landscapes on the banks of the Waikato River - takes on a new shine when autumn arrives.

In autumn, the Japanese Contemplation Garden delights with lines of maple trees transformed into golden tones. The newest feature is the Tudor Garden which reflects sixteenth century English aristocracy and is based on drawings by Didymus Mountain – the pen-name of sixteenth century writer Thomas Hill.

Visitors can take their time to explore nine themed gardens with an experienced guide, transporting to India or Italy while taking morning and afternoon tea or lunch in one of the themed gardens.

Wellington - Kapiti Island wildlife As summer dips from the horizon, the fresh autumn days bring out the natives. An hour north of Wellington – New Zealand’s capital city – Kapiti Island is home to an important nature reserve that protects some of the world’s rarest and most endangered birds.

During autumn, Kapiti Island turns into a hive of activity for birdlife as intense feeding takes place in preparation for the colder winter months. This is one of the best times to view the iconic

NEW ZEALAND AUTUMN

New Zealand Kiwi in their natural environment. The island lies between two marine reserves which are frequented by fur seals, whales and dolphins.

Orca and dolphins visit Wellington’s coast during the autumn months. Watch from the city’s waterfront or catch a ferry to Eastbourne in Wellington and watch out for them when travelling into Picton on the Interislander ferry.

Guided day trips to Kapiti Island are available from Wellington.

There is also overnight accommodation in a small family-owned lodge which includes a tranquil ‘glamping’ spot for a romantic night in the wilds.

charming old gold rush town on the banks of the Arrow River is nestled between towering peaks and hills covered in forests of brilliant autumn colours. Autumn in Arrowtown is celebrated annually at the popular Arrowtown Autumn Festival.

Not far from Arrowtown is the world-renowned Amisfield Winery where visitors can dine and enjoy a glass of Central Otago Pinot Noir in a spectacular vineyard setting.

South Island Lake Tekapo - see the stars Settled autumn weather brings clear days and nights. In the South Island's Mackenzie District, this is one of the best times to experience star-filled nights and the immensity of the universe in New Zealand’s International Dark Sky Reserve – the first in the southern hemisphere, and the world’s biggest starlight reserve.

Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is located in the Mackenzie Basin - an alpine region that includes New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki / Mt Cook and the beautiful turqoise-hued lakes Tekapo and Pukaki. Visitors looking to get an insight into the universe can do so with a night-time observatory tour with Earth & Sky. Earth & Sky take visitors on a journey of astronomical discovery, highlighting an abundance of hidden stars, planets and ethereal gems of the southern skies. Visitors can also enjoy a twilight tour, seeing the sun dip beneath the Southern Alps as the stars start to fill the darkening sky.

Autumn in Queenstown The famed alpine terrain of Queenstown may be best known for its snow-capped mountains, world-class skiing and thrilling New Zealand adventures, but come autumn the all-season resort town is also one New Zealand’s most exquisite places to relax.

In autumn the summer crowds have gone and the winter visitors are yet to come, leaving Queenstown a glorious illumination of red and gold and an epic playground for international visitors.

One of the most magical places to experience autumn in New Zealand is Arrowtown. Just a short drive from Queenstown, this

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PIES

Otago Peninsula Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the Royal Albatross Centre on Otago Peninsula close to Dunedin. Twenty seven large fluffy albatross chicks were hatched in January and are growing up on the windswept Taiaroa Head just 45 minutes from Dunedin city. Taiaroa Head is the world’s only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross and is a very special place to visit these magnificent birds while they raise their family. To view albatross soaring above with their three metre wingspan is an unforgettable experience!

To watch albatross online the Department of Conservation’s new #RoyalCam, offers an intimate glimpse of an albatross family’s life but be warned it is very addictive – totally beautiful and the setting is stunning. Visit http://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/native-animals/ birds/birds-a-z/albatrosses/royal-albatross-toroa/royal-cam/ So discover autumn in New Zealand and avoid the crowds, but still enjoy the sunshine – autumn is a great time to travel in New Zealand. For more information visit Tourism New Zealand at newzealand.com

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NEW ZEALAND AUTUMN

AUTUMN Events Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow 25 - 28 March, 2016

Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon Marlborough 14 May, 2016

Lake Wanaka’s mesmerising alpine landscape provides the perfect backdrop for the southern hemisphere’s largest warbird event, Warbirds over Wanaka. The biennial event has been rated in the top four warbird air shows in the world, and fills the small lakeside town with around 50,000 visitors during the three-day show. Up in the sky, vintage warbirds such as the Spitfire, Kittyhawk and C-130 Hercules put on thrilling deathdefying performances, while down below on solid ground there is a range of displays and exhibitions to entertain the crowds.

The Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon is a celebration of Marlborough’s landscapes, people and produce which will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2016. Open to runners and walkers, the track through private vineyard land looks out on river, vine and mountain.

There is a bottle of Saint Clair wine waiting at the finish line.

Routeburn Classic Fiordland 23 April, 2016 The Routeburn Classic is a 32.6km adventure race for 350 lucky athletes across New Zealand's famed Routeburn Track. The race climbs to 1127m above sea level as it crosses the high alpine Mount Aspiring and Fiordland national parks - a World Heritage conservation area – passing through a variety of terrain from lush native bush to an exposed alpine environment.

Bluff Oyster Festival Southland 21 May, 2016 Crowds pour in and the little port town of Bluff, on New Zealand’s southern tip, when it’s time to celebrate the Bluff Oyster harvest from the cold southern oceans. The oyster season usually lasts from March to August and, while the seafood delicacy will be featured on restaurant menus all over New Zealand, that doesn’t stop seafood lovers from flocking to the Southland town to enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes at the source. A selection of wild foods, live entertainment, shucking competitions and the Bluff Oyster Sack fashion show round off the experience.

Maritime Marvel In the heart of Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour in the city of sails the New Zealand Maritime Museum is the largest maritime collection in the country. The museum tells the remarkable stories of epic voyages and journeys that have shaped New Zealand’s history and identity.

The exhibitions explore the history and stories of the Polynesian people’s migration across the Pacific, European exploration, immigration and trade. It also tells the story of New Zealand’s yachting success. The displays and interactive opportunities are excellent and it is advised to allow at least two hours to complete your visit. The museum offers a combination of viewing the exhibits plus a sail on one of their vintage yachts if time allows. The museum is open every day from 9am to 5pm with final public admissions are at 4pm each day. Visit maritimemuseum.co.nz for more information.

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NEW ZEALAND AUTUMN

Akurua Arrowtown Autumn Festival 21-25 April 2016

Protect your assets Aon is the major force in New Zealand for insurance broking, risk management, employee benefits and claims management.

We do business with leading insurance companies with strong financial security and superior claims paying ability.

Join in and celebrate the Autumn with the Arrowtown Community.

Discover the delights of New Zealand made crafts at their Saturday Market and their local community groups as they parade down the main street joined this year by Lion Dancers from Dunedin.

To protect your assets and lifestyle, contact your local Aon branch today.

You can test your trivia knowledge at their Quiz night on Thursday.

If you enjoy a good party, then come along, on Saturday night, it’s a little bit Nashville and dance the night away.

Pie, Pint and Pinot is a great afternoon on Sunday and an opportunity to relax, sample craft beer and locally made pies and thanks to the sponsors Akurua, taste Rua Pinot Noir, Pinot Rose and Pinot Gris.

There’s lots of 'must go to' events for you to enjoy as we celebrate the autumn colours and the wonderful community that is Arrowtown.

INSURANCE BROKERS

Ph: 0800 800 398 or visit www.aon.co.nz

More information on arrowtownautumnfestival.org.nz

TRANZSCENIC RAIL HD DVD’s

F OOTAGE O F :

Your only chance to see......

Coastal Pacific 1st of Season Trans Alpine Shanty Town Northern Explorer Wellington / Auckland & return All over 1.5 hours long

...the world’s only mainland breeding colony of the Royal Albatross, on the Otago Peninsula, a short scenic drive from Dunedin. Guided tours, souvenir shop & superb café.

Relax and enjoy, No commentary, just the scenery so you can show your friends.

The Full trip shown Also footage of Interislander A L S O AVA IL ABLE

The Great Train Chase DVD Series of NZ Steam $40.00 NZD incl p&p $55.00 overseas Incl. p&p www.kbvideosandevents.com PICK UP A COPY FOR $35 FROM

Dunedin Railway Station iSite Greymouth Station iSite Picton (opp. Station) BOOKINGS FREEPHONE 0800 528 767

www.albatross.org.nz

www.arrowtownautumnfestival.org.nz

programme details available on our website – Feb 2016

Fundraiser for National Rail Museum & KB 968 restoration Contact: Kevin Boyd M: 0272290583 E: kwboyd54@gmail.com

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WALKING & HIKING

Routeburn Track Fiordland credit Vaughan-Brookfield

Discover New Zealand’s

Great Walks

By JO MAY Long, still days lend themselves to the great outdoors – Autumn is the perfect time of year to experience walking and hiking in New Zealand. It can also be one of the most rewarding ways of seeing the outstanding beauty of the landscapes and wilderness areas that this country has to offer.

Experience New Zealand's nine Great Walks that showcase some of our most well-known locations and diverse landscapes. Energetic hikers (or trampers) can discover glacier-carved valleys and traverse mountain passes, while more sedate day-walkers can explore golden beaches, bush walks and other sites of scenic, historic and cultural interest.

About one third of New Zealand's sparsely populated land has been set aside in national parks or reserves for the enjoyment of the public and increasing numbers of eco-tourists.

While opportunities for exploration exist all over the country, nine destinations are recognised as significant and have been designated ‘Great Walks’ by the Department of Conservation (DOC).

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‘GREAT WALKS’ IN THE NORTH ISLAND Lake Waikaremoana Lake Waikaremoana is situated east of the central volcanic plateau, in one of the North Island’s most remote regions.

The 46km (28 miles) track encircles the lake, providing a four to five-day walk. Apart from one day climbing a steep bluff, the track follows a leisurely path through rainforest.

Tongariro Northern Circuit Island The Tongariro Northern Circuit is a loop track of three to four days, starting and finishing at the foot of Mount Ruapehu. Few places equal the drama of this active volcanic region with its lava formations, tussock grassland, fumaroles and geysers, and emerald green mineral lakes - the setting for the scenes in New Zealand director Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Altitude and climatic conditions mean the Tongariro circuit is best walked from late November to March. The Tongariro Crossing one section of the circuit - is one of New Zealand’s most renowned day walks.

Whanganui Journey Included as one of New Zealand's 'Great Walks', the Whanganui Journey is more correctly a 145km kayak or canoe journey down the Whanganui River. Beginning in Taumaranui, this journey takes about five days to complete and provides an early New Zealand history experience. For hundreds of years the Whanganui River was an important Maori route; later, in early European settlement days, it became a steamboat highway. The winding river and surrounding lowland forest are now a national park.

WALKING & HIKING

‘GREAT WALKS’ IN THE SOUTH ISLAND Abel Tasman Coast Track The Abel Tasman Coastal Track, at the top of the South Island, only requires light walking shoes for the 50km (31 miles) route lined with miles of golden beaches. Along the way, five huts and 21 campsites offer accommodation, but transport has to be arranged from one end or the other. The walk takes around three to five days.

Heaphy Track The Heaphy Track, in the northwestern corner of the South Island, has over 80km (around 50 miles).The walk takes about five days.

The track is accessible year round, but winter snows can make the higher sections chilly. Attractions on the Heaphy Track include the nikau palm-lined beach at its western end, red tussock downs, lush beech forests and fields of alpine herbs.

Routeburn Track The Routeburn Track, another famous South Island track, has some of the most diverse scenery: forests, alpine flora, lakes, several waterfalls and panoramic views. The three-day trek covers 39km (24 miles).

Kelper Track The Kepler Track follows a loop that begins and ends at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau. It takes four days and traverses lakeside forest and open tussock grasslands, with one day spent walking along the mountain tops above the bush line.

Milford Track The Milford Track in Fiordland - New Zealand’s largest national park - is the most famous. Visitors spend four days / three nights following historic Maori routes through a dramatic landscape of forest-covered valleys, mountains and steep fiords from Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound. For this much demanded route, bookings are necessary well in advance, for both independent and guided walks.

Rakiura Track Escape to an island adventure and enjoy the tranquility of Stewart Island/Rakiura. This 3 day track is 32 km and passes historical interests and introduces many of the common sea and forest birds of the island. To get to Oban, the only township on Stewart Island/ Rakiura, you can take a 20-minute flight from Invercargill or a 1-hour ferry trip across Foveaux Strait from the southern port of Bluff.

Great Walks are accessible from major towns and tourist centres that are well serviced by local operators and accommodation and transport providers.

Make sure you visit greatwalks.co.nz for the latest safety and track information before you head out. and newzealand.com Some of the walks, including the Kepler, Routeburn, Milford and Tongariro Northern Circuit tracks, should only be attempted during the Great Walks season (late October to late April). Outside of this season facilities are greatly reduced and conditions are much more hazardous.

17

WALKING & HIKING

Experience Short Walks in New Zealand

Take a short walk through stunning scenery on one of DOC’s 500+ tracks

While you’re making your way around New Zealand this autumn, try out one of the 500+ short walks on Department of Conservation (DOC) land. There are great short walks scattered throughout the country, whether you’re looking for holiday daytime activities for the family or a quick stretch of the legs on a road trip.

If you’re stopping in Nelson during your break, take a day to head out and explore the Takaka area, where numerous short walks abound. A must-see is the azure blue Te Waikoropupū Springs, some of the clearest waters in the Southern Hemisphere.

Further afield, a 20-minute walk through the rolling green hills of the Puponga Farm Park will take you to Wharariki Beach, a spectacular coastal area featuring caverns, sand dunes and the iconic Archway Islands.

On your way back to Picton, schedule in some time to stop at the Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve. With walks through lush native bush and some of the country’s best swimming holes, it’s a great place to stop and break up your journey.

Further down State Highway 1 from Picton, take the opportunity for a break on the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. With walks ranging from 5 minutes to 3 hours, you’ll explore historic pā and whaling sights, see seals and seabirds, and take in the majestic views of the Kaikoura Ranges.

On the northern side of the ferry crossing, there are some fantastic walks in and around the Wellington area. Matiu/Somes Island, in the centre of the Wellington Harbour, makes for a great half-day trip from the capital city. A retired quarantine station, the island is packed with history and home to many endangered species, including a fascinating reptile population.

Discover these and many more walks at doc.govt.nz/shortwalks.

Bob’s Cove.

Photo: Miz Watanabe

Find out more at doc.govt.nz/shortwalks PHOTO CREDIT: MarlboroughNZ.com

18

buy nz made

Our Pick of the Bunch

Kiwi Made Products

While you enjoy the long sunny days and cooler nights that Aotearoa has in store this autumn. Take a look at these New Zealand made products.

New Zealand has a plethora of unique experiences to explore and enjoy, including a wonderful variety of home grown foods and flavours to choose from. What stands out to many people is how the food’s taste is enhanced simply because the main ingredients are grown right here in God’s Own. With such an assault on the senses, it can be tricky to know where to start, so we’ve drawn together a few of our ‘absolutely must try’ recommendations for you.

One of the great pleasures of travelling is tickling your taste buds with new flavours, and many of us want to recreate them at home. This is what Jenny Stewart did when she recreated Tamarind Chutney on returning to her Waiheke Island home after trying it on a trip to Fiji.

After experimenting with different ingredients Jenny created a superb chutney which friends encouraged her to sell at the Waiheke Island markets. Before long, Jenny's Kitchen Tamarind Chutney had become 'World famous on Waiheke', and still is.

Eighty year old Jenny has since entered her chutney in the Cuisine Artisan Awards which celebrate the best NZ artisan foods. Jenny's Kitchen Tamarind Chutney (Medium) took away an Artisan award, being described as “perfect” by Chef and Judge Ray McVinnie and praised for its amazing depth of flavour.

Since then Jenny’s Kitchen Tamarind Chutney has done a

little island hopping of its own, and can be found in around 100 stores around New Zealand. Look out for free tastings in holiday destinations like Gibbston Valley Cheese just out of Queenstown, Pataka Foodstore in Blenheim, Replete Café in Taupo and of course on Waiheke Island where The Goldie Room, Azzuro Groves Epicurean, and Rangihou Olive Estate are recommended stops for foodies.

For a refreshing thirst quencher while on your travels, another great natural product is Pete’s Natural Lemonade, born and bred out of Tapawera, Nelson. Its four natural flavours are all low in sugar and free from concentrates and preservatives with no citric acid added. They’re a delicious healthier option.

Pete sources fruit from Golden Bay, Upper Moutere as well as lemon and limes from Hawkes Bay, oranges from Gisborne mint from Marlborough, strawberries from Auckland, and blackcurrants and hops from Tapawera.

You may meet Pete and co-owner Marleen at the Gluten Free Food and Allergy Show Christchurch, Women's Expo Christchurch, Food Show Christchurch, Great NZ Food Show Hamilton, National Fieldays Hamilton or the A&P Show Christchurch. If you miss any of these shows, you can also find Pete’s Lemonade in supermarkets, stores, cafes, restaurants and bars throughout NZ. Visit www.peteslemonade.co.nz for more information and the Pete’s Lemonade story.

While on the subject of sweet treats, a great way of satisfying your chocolate cravings without the guilt is with a bar of Solomon’s Chocolate. By taking the taste experience right back to when chocolate was conceived, Solomon’s has nothing taken out of the chocolate during processing. The chocolate and cacao nibs 19

buy nz made

Solomon’s Chocolate

Jenny’s Kitchen Tamarind Chutney

are kept as natural as possible, and only certified organic sugar or coconut nut sap sugar are used as sweeteners. It’s also vegan, gluten, nut and dairy free.

New Dark Orange and Dark Mint varieties were recently launched, with a smidgen of natural mint or natural orange oil to accentuate the 70% dark chocolate’s unique flavour.

It’s not what they add to the chocolate that makes the taste amazing it’s what they don't add that makes it so good... and good for you. Find out more at www.solomonsgold.co.nz.

Knowing something is grown here is fantastic but what is even better is being able to trace it right back to its roots – literally. This is exactly what you can do with The Totally Kiwi range of Infused Flax Seed Oils, grown and produced in Canterbury, and traceable back to the paddock … from Soil to Oil®.

Born out of a passion to create healthy edible oils that taste great and are a joy to use in the kitchen, all of Totally Kiwi’s flax seed oil products carry a traceability reference unique to each product. This reference allows you to view the location of the

totally kiwi flax seed oils

grower of the key ingredients together with details of the crop.

Go to totallykiwi.co.nz/Where+to+Buy.html to find your nearest store.

New Zealand’s temperate climate and fertile soils make it an ideal country to grow many crops, including those that may surprise you – such as tea.

Located in the Waikato’s beautiful rural heartland, the Zealong National Tea Centre is New Zealand’s only commercial tea plantation, growing and packaging the world’s finest leaves.

For the truest of tea lovers, Zealong provides purity in taste and quality. It’s also fully traceable and 100% certified organic.

Zealong delivers tea that meets the highest palatable, production and purity tests. Find out more at www.zealong.com.

That’s our round up of tasty New Zealand treats for this season.

Look out for these products in supermarkets, stores, cafes, and restaurants throughout NZ. You can also order from their websites and have a taste of NZ sent to your home.

Mountain Valley Honey Va l l e y H o n e y

®

Mountain Valley Honey brings you award winning honeys, harvested from the beautiful Marlborough Sounds and stunning remote areas of the top of the South Island. Our bees forage to bring you Manuka, Native Bush, Honeydew, Autumn Gold and Kamahi flavours. All of our honeys are hand packed.We use the minimal amount of processing from hive to honeypot to lock in flavour for you to enjoy. Enchant your tastebuds.

FIND US AT

www.mountainvalleyhoney.co.nz 20

Mountain Valley Honey brings you award winning golden honey which has been collected from the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, Mt Richmond Ranges and Whangamoa areas.

Their hives are situated in rural sites where the bees have a wide variety of floral sources.

Each year the company enjoys a varied harvest which can include Manuka, Native Bush, Kamahi, Autumn Gold, Clover and Honeydew.

Visit www.mountainvalleyhoney.co.nz.

buy nz made

Eyris Blue Pearls

Uniquely New Zealand

Portraying the true essence of individuality, our brand Eyris was chosen to reflect the link between the natural beauty of the human eye and the unique beauty of each blue pearl.

The story behind the creation of one of nature’s most stunning gems is as remarkable as each individual blue pearl itself. It’s the story of dedication and research and development to create a gem that is truly distinctive, truly one of a kind. It’s the story of New Zealander Roger Beattie, who, in 1989, established the first ocean based blue pearl farm at Whangamoe Inlet on New Zealand’s Chatham Islands.

The humble paua, New Zealand’s own abalone Haliotis iris has given us the blue pearl. Paua are only found in the cool water areas close to the New Zealand coastline and it is these creatures which possess the greatest range of colour and iridescence of any abalone shell. Blue pearls capture the essence of New Zealand, a vibrant, fresh, young country; a country with a feeling of adventure and organic beauty. The colours of blue pearls are the colours of New Zealand.

Blue Skies, Blue Seas, Blue Pearls Eyris Pearls - the original blue pearls. Available throughout New Zealand – see www.bluepearls.com for stockists.

Stockists: Akaroa - Blue Pearl Gallery Auckland Wellington

ADV2016 CS6913 3/16

Picton, Nelson, Hokitika Queenstown

www.bluepearls.com Telephone +64 (3) 377 0365

21

dine WELLINGTON

Wellington the Culinary Capital

By JO MAY Autumn is the perfect time to eat your way across Wellington and explore its thriving culinary scene. Cosy up at one of our favourite spots with a delicious meal made with local produce, and a Wairarapa wine to match!

Wellington is said to have more bars and restaurants per capita than New York, the culinary capital caters for everything from quick bites to long nights.

If you're keen to start your night off with an impressive dinner with the option of really settling in for the long haul, you can't go wrong with these picks.

So why not take a bite‌‌

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DINE WELLINGTON

The Pavilion Restaurant Peppers Parehua Martinborough

Foxglove Bar & Kitchen Wellington City

Let food and wine take centre stage and allow The Pavilion Restaurant to introduce you to the best of the region in its intimate dining room overlooking the beautiful estate gardens located at Peppers Parehua. The menu is creative and the service impeccable, with every little detail thoughtfully taken care of.

The Pavilion Restaurant is currently offering 10% off your total bill & a $20 Breakfast special to Wairarapa locals. The Terrace Bar offers cocktails of the day, local beer specials and exclusively selected Martinborough wines of the week and month. Open 7 days a week, for breakfast and dinner.

Foxglove Bar & Kitchen, is a historic building set in a fabulous location on Queens Wharf with three bars, three decks with iconic daybeds, a 1920’s style restaurant and ocean views from every vantage point. Come through the wardrobe for smoked old fashioned martinis anyway you like and one of the biggest whisky selections in Wellington. A bar menu is offered inside and out, including delicious salads, burgers and platters, then downstairs in the restaurant a more formal setting where you can indulge in rare venison leg, confit pork belly, seasonal vegetables and our famous Whittakers ‘Dark Ghana’ chocolate pudding.

New York Street West, Martinborough T: +64 6 306 8405 E: Parehua@peppers.co.nz peppers.co.nz/parehua

33 Queens Wharf T: +64 4 460 9410 E: info@foxglovebar.co.nz foxglovebar.co.nz

Little India Little India is a family business. Founded by Sukhi Gill in Dunedin in 1991, the family restaurant has grown from humble beginnings to a nationwide business, with over 17 Little India restaurants throughout New Zealand.

Hillside Kitchen & Cellar Wellington City Discover Hillside Kitchen and Cellar located in Thorndon, Wellington which produces creative kiwi cuisine. A deli by day and a restaurant by night they offer breakfast, lunch and dinner.

As well as three and four course menus, they are also now serving their multi-course Hillside Menu on an ongoing basis... this is their expression of modern New Zealand cuisine and is focused on seasonal ingredients and embraces the many cuisines of Aotearoa. All of the food is excellent in quality, presentation, flavour and the drinks list is just as good.

Asher and Jules want you to stop, sit, and chat with your guests / friends / neighbours over good food, with minimal fuss. So, at dinner it’s simply how many courses, which dishes take your fancy, and whether you want drinks matching or not. And the daytime is even simpler – a counter snack or blackboard dish, and perhaps a coffee.

Hillside Kitchen & Cellar is a foodies dream!

They cook the legendary Indian food dishes of North India, The Punjab. Their careful preparation makes their Indian food beautiful to behold and addictive to the palate.

They also use traditional tandoors which have a clay pot and are fired by charcoal. They give their naans and meat their authentic flavour.

Little India has five locations in Wellington city and suburbs. www.litteindia.co.nz Refer to this advert and receive 2 free poppadoms when you eat at any one of the Wellington restaurants.

Dine in, take out or home delivery available

115 Cuba Mall, Wellington City / Tel: 64 4 384 2535 18 Blair Street, Courtney Place, Wellington City / Tel: 64 4 384 9989 66 Bloomfield Terrace, Lower Hutt / Tel: 64 4 586 9030 The Mall, Logan street, Wellington City / Tel: 64 4 528 7232 1D Mungavin Ave, Porirua, Wellington / Tel: 64 4 238 2555

Corner of Hill Street & Tinakori Road, Thorndon T: +64 473 7140 E: info@hillsidekitchen.co.nz W: hillsidekitchen.co.nz

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dine wellington

Havana Bar & Restaurant Wellington City Situated in colourful and cosy historic cottages, Havana is an award winning cocktail bar and restaurant serving a diverse range of Spanish inspired tapas and seasonal plates. The bar supports local and international musicians and DJ's three nights a week for your listening pleasure.

The bar has been in operation for 13 years and the opening of the restaurant five years ago completed the evolution of this stalwart of the Wellington hospitality scene. With a focus on seasonal produce and a weekly changing menu, the food is designed to be shared amongst compadres.

mama brown Wellington City With hints of American style food and charm, Mama Brown’s all day menu has a range available to satisfy anyone wanting food cooked with love. This includes 5 hour slow cooked ribs, pulled pork, a range of burgers and a tasty spin on the classic chicken and waffles.

Mama's eclectic style, including booths made out of old airplane seats, attracts people from all parts of the city. With friendly staff and a positive attitude towards offering the best service possible, you will leave with full bellies and feeling well looked after. Special menu options run weekly including milkshakes of the week, which are super thick and made from real ingredients such as Kit Kat, Oreo and Mama's own Double Choc Fudge Brownie, the Mama's Plate for Papa, which includes two buffalo wings, two pork ribs, nachos, a pulled pork burger and fries, as well as kid's menu options for those little chiefs out there. Mama Brown is located on the corner of Tory and Wakefield street in the heart of Wellington. Come in, eat and chill out in an authentic diner-style restaurant.

Havana Bar is a unique urban oasis preserved and nestled amongst an array of high rise neighbours. The kitchen is proud to provide the highest quality products sourced from the ‘Best little capital in the world’, including the rest of New Zealand and abroad. Havana Bar encompasses the full experience, from the delights of lunch, dinner, and drinks, finishing with the finest music and dance.

We welcome you to come down and join in the relaxed and spontaneous sanctuary that is Havana Bar.

32a Wigan Street, Te Aro, Wellington T: +64 4 384 7039 E: info@havanabar.co.nz W: havanabar.co.nz

20% Discount on all food Take a picture of this ad and show it when paying the bill 11am - 11pm Wed – Fri 9am - 11pm Sat 9am - 9pm Sun CLOSED Mon and Tues 250 Wakefield Street, Wellington (near Te Papa) T: 04 384 3604 mamabrown.co.nz mamabrownwellington

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A FINE EXAMPLE OF WHAT TO EXPECT AT HIPPOPOTAMUS Filet de chevreuil, petites betteraves au vinaigre, ganache de caramel salé et pruneaux au porto Seared venison fillet with pickled baby beetroot, port wine drunken prunes, salted caramel ganache, spiced red wine jus reduction, chili and chocolate crumble

Museum Art Hotel is New Zealand’s most admired design hotel.

Located on Wellingtons waterfront, it boasts a comprehensive collection of contemporary New Zealand art, putting it in the world’s top 10 of its genre.

It is also home to the Hippopotamus Restaurant and Cocktail Bar. Here guests can experience the art of fine-dining with French culinary masterpieces designed by Award-winning Executive Chef, Laurent Loudeac. The restaurants extensive cellar selected by New Zealand Sommelier of the Year and Head Maite’d Maciej Zimny, holds the best of New Zealand and European wine.

Hippopotamus Restaurant presents the finest French cuisine in peacock-like opulence with stunning views of Wellington harbour.

Winners of the Dilmah Global High Tea Challenge, Hippopotamus offers world class High Tea like no other and is must for any foodie enthusiast.

Early Evening Dining Complete your day or commence your artistic evening with a sumptuous early evening set menu at Hippopotamus restaurant and cocktail bar. Experience the art of fine dining with a two course set menu. Expand your creative voyage with a self-guided art tour or savour a stylish cocktail with dessert in the glamorous Hippopotamus cocktail bar - art guides are available at reception.

Menu Degustation Choose one of the degustation experiences designed and prepared by the very talented Executive Chef Laurent Loudeac.

You can choose to have either five, six or eight courses which you can have with or without wine pairing and are surprise plates of the Chef’s choice. Due to the complexity it is advised that menus should be ordered before 8.45pm.

Private Dining Room Hippopotamus restaurant is delighted to introduce its luxurious Private Dining Room “Le Salon de Louis Roederer”. They have designed a gourmet selection of Private Dining set menus for you to choose when making your reservation. This intimate room has a capacity of 12, with a minimum of eight.

Level 3, 90 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington T: +64 4 802 8935 E: hippo@museumhotel.co.nz W: hippopotamus.co.nz

About the Hotel Opposite Te Papa Museum the hotel is situated in the heart of Wellington’s bustling restaurant and bar epicentre, only a minutes’ walk from a variety of theatres, galleries, walking trails and Oriental beach.

Known for its decadent lobby with three limited edition MV Augusta motorcycles on show, Museum Art Hotel’s onsite facilities also include a café, fitness centre, sauna, swimming pool, spa pool, and function spaces.

The Museum Art Hotel is truly unique, as is its superb collection of original, contemporary New Zealand art. This is a private collection of a well-known Wellington philanthropist, with pieces from some of New Zealand’s iconic artists such as Bill Hammond and Michael Tuffery.

90 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington T: +64 4 802 8900 E: info@museumhotel.co.nz W: museumhotel.co.nz

ACCOMMODATION PICKS

Our AUTUMN accommodation picks From the top of the North Island to the bottom of the South, make the most of New Zealand’s picturesque holiday destinations and while you are at it, check out some of this season’s top accommodation spots.

Taupo - Acapulco Motor Inn Travel to the centre of the North Island and you will find the Acapulco Motor Inn, which is ideally situated close to picturesque Lake Taupo, allowing you to explore what the region has to offer with a range of adventure, relaxation activities and events. www.acapulcotaupo.co.nz

Ruapehu - The Park Hotel

Just minutes walk from Lake Taupo and the town centre, Acapulco Motor

The place to stay when you are doing the crossing and having fun on the slopes. They cater for your accommodation needs. Rest and relax at the end of the day in their restaurant/bar and spa pools. www.the-park.co.nz

Inn offers a large selection of air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi,

Napier - Ballina Motel

LCD TV and a DVD player. Also a hot

One of Hawke's Bay's newest luxury air-conditioned motels in Napier. Centrally located in Taradale midway between Napier and Hastings city centres. They are within easy walking distance of the cafes, restaurants, bars, and the main shopping centre of Taradale.

tub and BBQ area.

19 RIFLE RANGE ROAD, TAUPO PH: (07) 378 7174 FREEPHONE: 0800 37 87 174 EMAIL: INFO@ACAPULCOTAUPO.CO.NZ

www.acapulcotaupo.co.nz

www.ballinamotel.co.nz

Palmerston North - Aubyn Court Spa Motel Spacious accommodation in the heart of Palmerston North, Aubyn Court Spa Motel is the perfect place to stay. Close to The Plaza shopping mall, restaurants and cafes which are just a short walk from the motel. www.aubyncourt.co.nz

Golden Bay - Wildcat Motel Wildcat Motel in beautiful Golden Bay at the top of New Zealand's South Island. Looking for genuine kiwi hospitality, recreation or relaxation, you'll find lots of it here. Friendly on-site owner-managers, can provide you with local information for exploring Golden Bay. A great place to stay with family & friends! www.wildcatmotelgoldenbay.co.nz

Kaikoura - The Fairways at Ocean Ridge

ON THE DOORSTEP OF MT RUAPEHU The place to stay when you are doing the crossing and having fun on the slopes. We cater for all your accommodation needs. Rest & relax at the end of the day in our restaurant / bar and spa pools.

You'll be right next to Kaikoura Golf Club, just 5 minutes from Kaikoura township. Their luxury 5 star Kaikoura accommodation offers couples and families wanting a relaxing Kaikoura holiday retreat or for those enroute between Picton, Nelson, Marlborough and Christchurch on their South Island tours. www.thefairways.co.nz

Christchurch - Argyle On The Park Motel Affordable accommodation, with free parking, conveniently located close to the Christchurch City Centre overlooking beautiful Hagley Park. The motel is an ideal choice for both the business traveller and families on holiday who wish to explore Christchurch.

Only a two-minute drive will take you to Christchurch Railway Station – the gateway of the popular TranzAlpine and Coastal Pacific train journeys. All guests get free transfer to the Railway Station. www.argylemotel.co.nz

Arcadia Motel Comfortable, spacious, clean, convenient and affordable accommodation in Christchurch.

Arcadia Motel is located just 4km, a 10-minute drive, from the Christchurch City Centre in a spacious park setting in historical Woolston, on the banks of the Heathcote River.

Cnr SH4 & Millar St, National Park Village

e: bookings@the-park.co.nz 07 8922748 or 0800 800 491 26

www.arcadiamotel.co.nz

ACCOMMODATION PICKS

S PA M O T E L

Romantic Package

Looking for a little luxury and indulgence in Palmerston North? Book yourself into Aubyn Court Spa Motel and you will find it in one of our executive spa suites.

Our romantic package is a great 'mini break' for couples, offering:

16 luxury rooms Airconditioned FREE Unlimited Internet Quiet central location 50+ SKY channels Close to all Hawke’s Bay attractions

• • • • • • • • • •

Very spacious apartment suite Own private in-room spa pool Free ultrafast Wi-Fi Free gym pass at Cityfitness gym Free parking, Free newspaper Luxury Raw Silk bathroom amenities Specialty coffees 50+ SKY channels Plaza shopping centre across the road Affiliated with Palmerston North's best restaurants

PACKAGE INCLUDES; One nights luxury accommodation for 2 people, chocolates, flowers, a bottle of bubbly and breakfast for two. $

ONLY 255

www.ballinamotel.co.nz

We have a variety of sunny spacious self-contained apartments. Our ground floor apartments have patios giving easy access to the garden; upstairs apartments have views of the bay all overlooking our hidden garden.

Only a five minute walk to a great swimming beach at Pohara, and a short drive to Tata Beach, Ligar Bay, Wainui Bay & Totaranui.

Explore your way around the bay and discover our other spectacular hidden gems Pupu Springs, Wainui Falls, Farewell Spit & Wharariki Beach. Fishing and scenic charters are available with our host, accommodation & trip packages are available; please contact us directly for further details.

688 Abel Tasman Drive, Pohara, Takaka, Golden Bay

393 Gloucester Street Taradale, Napier Reservations: 0508 22 55 42

Call 0800 90 89 88 to book or www.aubyncourt.co.nz

P: 03 525 9438 M: 027 6934494 E: info@wildcatmotelgoldenbay.co.nz www.wildcatmotelgoldenbay.co.nz

CHRISTCHURCH S

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$

110

Argyle on the Park Motel has a unique location right across from beautiful Hagley Park. This makes it ideal for travellers wanting to explore the central city of Christchurch.

The motel has twelve fully self-contained units, each unit has full kitchen facilities, heat pumps, double glazing, Sky TV and free WiFi. They also offer free transfers to the Christchurch Railway Station for those guests travelling on the TranzAlpine or Coastal Pacific trains.

The Riccarton Westfield Shopping Mall, many restaurants and cafes are all within walking distance of the motel. It is also located just few minutes’ drive from Christchurch famous HornCastle Arena and Addington Raceway & Events Centre.

ARCADIA MOTEL Comfortable, spacious affordable accommodation

ARCADIA MOTEL OFFERS YOU: • Spacious and tranquil park setting with ample parking

• Free internet available

• Units with full kitchens

• Pet friendly motel

• Units with baths and showers

• Long term earth quake repair accommodation

• Family sized units • Disabled access unit 1 Kersage Dr, Ocean Ridge, Kaikoura NZ Freephone: 0508 324 792 P: 03 319 3055 E: stay@thefairways.co.nz

www.thefairways.co.nz

145 Deans Avenue, Riccarton, Christchurch E: argylemotel@xtra.co.nz P: 0800 827 495 or +64 3 348 9186

www.argylemotel.co.nz

FREEPHONE 0800 272 2342 564 Ferry Road, Woolston, ChCh E: info@arcadiamotel.co.nz www.arcadiamotel.co.nz 27

the XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX coromandel

the coromandel

simply stunning

By JO MAY As the long days of an endless Coromandel summer slip into autumn’s mellow vibe, it's a perfect time to visit. Golden light and warm water make the peaceful northern part of The Coromandel the perfect place to get away from it all.

Historic Coromandel Town, the northern-most town, is a haven for talented artists and craftspeople who have moved here from around New Zealand. The town has a unique character, reflecting art and heritage, and the many local galleries are worth a browse.

Seafood is a specialty, so be sure to sample some local mussels or oysters from one of the farms, or elegantly cooked at the Mussel Kitchen, or The Peppertree Restaurant.

Coromandel Town is also home to the well-known Driving Creek Railway, a favourite with young and old. Founded by local artist, conservationist and rail enthusiast, Barry Brickell, the narrow gauge railway climbs a tortuous route through the bush over viaducts and through tunnels to deposit you at the Eye full Tower, with panoramic views over the Hauraki Gulf. An onsite gallery showcases paintings and sculpture. Adjacent to Driving Creek Railway is a wildlife sanctuary, established for the preservation and enhancement of local endangered native wildlife species, and surrounded by a vermin-proof fence.

The remote northern part of the peninsula is home to the spectacular Coromandel Coastal Walkway. The trip starts with a drive up the western coast, with local tour operator Coromandel 28

Discovery offering a good option, past the last outpost of Colville, where the store is a quirky landmark. The road becomes a gravel ribbon along the rocky shoreline, ducking under giant ancient Pohutukawa trees, passing an old granite wharf, then mounting the western flanks of Mount Moehau to reach the northern bays, and finally Fletcher Bay, the starting point for the walk. Sacred Moehau is often shrouded in mist, hiding the burial place of many chiefs, including Tamatekapua of Te Arawa and sheltering the rare and endangered tiny Archey’s frog.

The walkway sets off across farmland, over a fence and then an upper track branches off to the right, taking mountain bikers higher along the ridges, following the same route. The path soon takes you through pristine native bush as you climb around several headlands to peer cautiously off the sheer cliffs into clear, sparkling water many metres below.

The track descends to small rocky bays, often with a trickling stream to cross before remounting the headlands where the views are expansive. It will take you a bit more than three hours to reach Stony Bay where Coromandel Discovery will be waiting to take you back to Coromandel Town. However, on a sparkling

the coromandel

autumn day, you can easily retrace your steps and complete the coastal walkway in the opposite direction to retrieve your vehicle at Fletcher Bay. Returning to Coromandel Town, the road leaves the coast at Port Charles and winds past Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat. At Tangiaro the bush still echoes with the primal calls of unusual birds and insects. In fact, this valley has one of the highest Kiwi call rates in the North Island - there is a good chance you'll hear them if you stay in one of the cedar lodges.

Whether you arrive by ferry across the Hauraki Gulf from Auckland or by road on the winding Pohutukawa Coast from Thames, this peaceful northern part of The Coromandel will deliver an ideal autumn getaway.

Visit www.thecoromandel.com for more information.

Photo : Coromandel Discovery

Coromandel Discovery Discover timeless landscapes, ancient volcanoes, pohutukawa trees and dramatic coastlines - all set against the backdrop of the island-studded Hauraki Gulf and the Pacific Ocean.

Enjoy this one day sightseeing tour to the tip of the Coromandel Peninsula which includes a 3-4 hour walk. The trip starts daily at 8.30am and returns by 5pm plus there are shorter walks available or you can enjoy a scenic drive on the bus instead.

We offer pick up and drop off from your accommodation in the Coromandel township.

We are passionate about the area and have huge local knowledge of this stunning part of New Zealand.

Accommodation, Restaurant Weddings, Functions Nestled within 800 acres of native bush we have 14 fully self-contained Chalets’ – one, two and three bedroom options. With your personal onsite massage therapist & private outdoor bush spa pools, this is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.

P: 07 866 8175

1299 Port Charles Road, RD 4, Coromandel 3584 E: info@kiwiretreat.co.nz P: 0800TANGIARO or 07 8666614

coromandeldiscovery.com

www.kiwiretreat.co.nz

E: info@coromandeldiscovery.co.nz

One hour round trip on a scenic narrow gauge railway to a mountain top terminus with glorious views.

Daily trains suitable for all ages.

Wheelchair accessible. Art gallery, pottery and bookshop, sculpture garden, wildlife sanctuary, picnic areas and secure parking.

380 Driving Creek Road Just 3km north of Coromandel Town. Bookings advisable.

Ph: 07 8668703 E: bookings@dcrail.nz

www.drivingcreekrailway.co.nz 29

hamilton waikato

Hamilton & Waikato Region

The Heart of the North Island

By JO MAY From magnificent parks and gardens to a thriving cultural precinct, the city offers a vibrant combination of fine dining and nightlife options as well as an electric mix of leisure, lifestyle and activity choices. Being New Zealand's largest inland city, situated on the banks of the Waikato River, (the country's longest river) Hamilton has a welcoming spirit, rich history and contrasting splendours that await many a visitor.

With the crowds of the summer months dispersing, autumn is the perfect time to explore the Hamilton & Waikato region’s hidden gems. From Middle-earth movie magic and underground adventures to inner city delights and natural wonders, there is something for everyone.

The hub of the region, Hamilton City, boasts plenty of great activities and attractions to explore. Take a leisurely stroll around the stunning Hamilton Gardens or enjoy the sights of the city from a unique view point with a hot air balloon ride or a relaxing cruise on the Waikato River with the Waikato River Explorer.

Shop-a-holics will be more than satisfied at Australasia’s largest shopping complex, The Base in the northern outskirts of the city, while Waikato Museum offers an insight into the region’s history and culture along with regular national exhibitions.

The region is also becoming known for its culinary delights.

Visit a local farmers market for the freshest locally grown produce or dine in award winning restaurants, top local cafes and quaint coffee shops. Venues such as SKYCITY Hamilton offer a multitude of inner city dining and entertainment options while those looking for a little indulgence should head just north of Hamilton city to New Zealand’s only tea plantation, Zealong Tea Estate, where they can enjoy a delectable high tea overlooking the plantation.

30

Head east into the rural farmland of the Matamata district and you will discover the magical Hobbiton Movie Set. Take a tour and be transported into the world of Middle-earth as your stroll past welcoming looking hobbit holes and enjoy a refreshing Southfarthing beverage at The Green Dragon Inn. For a little adventure, discover the underground wonders of the Waitomo Caves, with everything from gentle boat rides under a galaxy of twinkling glowworms in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves to adrenalin-fuelled black water rafting with the likes of Waitomo Adventures.

Natural wonders also abound in the region. Take a walk through Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari and make the most of the ample bird watching opportunities, with cheeky Kaka and other native birdlife regularly making an appearance, or call in to the Otorohanga Kiwi House for all-day viewing of the country’s national icons, the Kiwi, along with other native birds and reptiles.

Spend the day exploring by bike on one of the region’s many great rides including the Timber Trail, Waikato River Trails or the Hauraki Rail Trail, which if cycling the Paeroa to Te Aroha section, has the added option of enjoying a relaxing naturally hot mineral spa at the Te Aroha Mineral Spas at the end to ease those aching muscles.

A visit to the Classics Museum situated in Hamilton is definitely a blast from the past. Their collection encompasses a range of interests including cars and an extensive collection of petrol memorabilia, pin ball machines and early toys. There is something classic for the whole family, including the Jukebox Diner, a 1950’s themed diner.

For more information on great things to see and do in the Hamilton & Waikato region this autumn visit www. hamiltonwaikato.com

hamilton waikato

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Discover New Zealand's natural highlights ​​​​​​ World renowned and a magnet for both local and overseas visitors, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves occupy a high placing in the New Zealand vacation wish-list. www.waitomo.com

The World's purest tea Organically grown in New Zealand Waikato, New Zealand. Home of Zealong tea. A Pacific Garden of Eden where tea grows naturally, free of chemical sprays or fertilisers.

Pure air, pure sunshine, pure water and fertile soil give Zealong New Zealand tea a remarkable freshness in flavour and fragrance that excites even the most jaded tea drinker. www.zealong.com

C lassic cars & Vntage Collectables O P E N 7 D AY S

from 9am til 4pm PH. 07 9572230

11 Railside Place HAMILTON

www.classicsmuseum.co.nz 31

manawatu

Creative Manawatu

For the first and only time in New Zealand

CREDIT: Frida Kahlo, by Guillermo Kahlo, 1932 ©Frida Kahlo Museum

Palmerston North City and Manawatu is the perfect place for a getaway. There's an abundance of things to see and do. Visit www.ManawatuNZ.co.nz for more information.

Palmerston North City & Manawatu is the perfect place for an authentic kiwi experience, offering a playground of adventure and discovery. Explore awe-inspiring walks, scenic touring routes and spectacular gardens or step back in time and learn about New Zealand’s rugby, farming and settlement history at three of New Zealand’s best museums.

Palmerston North is centred around a beautiful inner city park sprinkled with public art and surrounded by boutique shops and art galleries.

The region is home to the most amazing art, culture and heritage collections displaying an evolving array of collections. Be inspired by the many art galleries, sculptures and murals that create vibrancy and atmosphere throughout the city and townships Te Manawa is the cultural heart of a city that thrives on discovery – entertaining and inspiring people from all walks of life for more than 40 years. It’s more than a museum and a gallery. It’s a place where concepts and communities come together. One such exhibition that runs at Te Manawa this autumn is Frida Kahlo – Her Images.

For the first and only time in New Zealand, images from Frida Kahlo’s personal and historic collection of photographs will be exhibited exclusively at Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and History in Palmerston North City.

Frida Kahlo’s distinctive, colourful self-portraits and extraordinary life have made her one of the most recognised artists of the 20th century. Less well known is her special relationship with photography. Frida had early contact with photography due to her father’s occupation as a professional photographer and, later on, her close relationship with photographic artists of the time. Either behind or in front of the camera, the Mexican artist developed a strong, well defined personality, which she managed to portray in both her paintings and portraits.

32

Frida Kahlo by Lola Álvarez Bravo, ca. 1944 ©Frida Kahlo Museum

Curated by the renowned Mexican photographer and historian Pablo Ortiz Monasterio, the exhibition includes images by many noted photographers including Man Ray, Nickolas Murray, Gisèle Freund, Martín Munkácsi, Tina Modotti, Guillermo Kahlo and more.

This is a unique opportunity for New Zealand to delve into the life and artistic practice of Frida Kahlo from this important collection of personal memorabilia, which remained hidden from the public for over fifty years after Kahlo’s death in 1954.

Frida Kahlo – Her Photos runs from 19 March until 24 July, exclusively at Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and History in Palmerston North City. For more details visit www.temanawa. co.nz/frida Adults: $12.00 (Door sales only) Concession: $10.00 Children under 13 years no charge

WELLINGTON

Welcome to Wellington

By JO MAY

Celebrated as New Zealand’s creative and culinary capital, Wellington is nestled between two of the country’s finest wine regions. The city is packed with creators, doers and lovers of life who have a contagious energy and passion for Wellington.

33

WELLINGTON

Loved for its dining culture, accessible waterfront, city markets, walking and biking trails, and some of the best coffee and craft beer on the planet, the compact central city is home to a thriving tech scene and vibrant street culture. Wellington’s airport is a 15 minute scenic drive from the CBD and the city is an ideal short break destination, as well as a must visit as part of a longer New Zealand itinerary.

movie-making magic, and check out the new Thunderbirds Are Go! tour.

Urban nature Wellington is surrounded by a sparkling harbour and lush hills, with 350km of bike trails and 715kms of walking tracks to play on. Get up close and personal with a three-eyed prehistoric reptile and New Zealand’s native birds at 225-hectare Eco sanctuary Zealandia, or explore the bush-clad hills of the Town Belt. There are around 360 km of walking and mountain biking trails across the region, and plenty of accessible lookouts with gorgeous views across the city and harbour. Mud Cycles is Wellington’s original bike hire store and has a fleet of rental bikes for kids and adults.

The silver screen Described by acclaimed Mexican director Guillermo del Toro as “Hollywood the way God intended it”, Wellington is home to a collective of world-leading businesses, artisans and film-makers all within close proximity. Wellington has a global reputation for filmmaking, largely thanks to the vision of Sir Peter Jackson and Sir Richard Taylor, the creative geniuses behind some of the world’s top films, including The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Visit Weta Workshop, located at Wellywood’s production capital of Miramar, for a look behind the scenes.

Culinary capital Nestled between rich farmland and ocean, Wellington has all the ingredients of a true culinary capital. The multicultural city brings traditions from around the world to its restaurants and cafes, plus, with the relaxed culture and compact city centre there is a vibrant, welcoming culinary scene, with chefs serving beautifully crafted food made with passion and creativity.

Autumn is the perfect time to eat your way across Wellington and explore its thriving culinary scene. Cosy up at one of our

Closest Motel and Campervan Park to the Interislander ferry terminal – simple 5min drive north on State Highway 1 and take the Newlands motorway exit. (1 Newlands Road, Newlands)

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www.capitalgateway.co.nz 34

WELLINGTON

favourite spots with a delicious meal made with local produce, and a Wairarapa wine to match! Turn to pages 22-25 of this issue to read our Wellington Dine feature and our picks for dining in the capital.

Be sure to pay a visit to quirky craft beer bar Goldings Free Dive (14 Leeds Street) and sample craft beers from all over Wellington and New Zealand. The best part is customers can order pizzas from nearby Pizza Pomodoro and have them delivered from just over the laneway, so you don’t need to leave your pint!

Beer lovers should make a beeline to super-creative brewery Garage Project’s new taproom on Aro Street. With 18 taps of Garage Project beer and delicious bites to match, it’s an ideal spot to spend an afternoon in the craft beer capital.

As the nights get longer, cocktails in cosy bars are in order.

Wander off Wellington’s busy streets and into Hanging Ditch (14 Leeds Street), where spirits hang from the ceiling on bungee cords and the bartenders seriously know their stuff. This sparkling new spot, which was founded by two of Wellington’s favourite cocktail characters, is tucked away down the culinary quarter of Hannahs Laneway. The Earth, Wind, Peanut Butter & Fire cocktail comes highly recommended – one of the ingredients is Fix & Fogg peanut butter made in the same laneway.

Stay The Wellington region has a great array of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes. So whether you’re after hotel accommodation with a harbour view, a cheap and cheerful

backpackers in the CBD, Wellington will make you feel at home. Our picks this autumn are: Travelodge is the perfect oasis right in the centre of the city (2-6 Gilmer Terrace). Its proximity to the harbour, Wellington Museum and the cafes and restaurants of Lambton Quay mean adventure is never far away.

Quest on Thorndon Apartment Hotel is located right in the CBD and is situated in the heart of the Wellington Government District and close to both Lambton Quay and the Westpac Stadium.

Halswell Lodge is located centrally in Courtenay Place and is easy walking distance to city entertainment and attractions.

Capital Gateway Motor Inn is located seven minutes from Wellington city. They offer a range of accommodation options and also have campervan park.

For a beautiful accommodation experience, visit Museum Art Hotel (90 Cable Street) and enjoy its stylishly-decorated rooms and quirky, art-filled lobby. It’s just a short walk to the Te Papa Tongarewa museum, where you can see the awe-inspiring Gallipoli: The Scale of our War exhibition.

Only 20 minutes north of Wellington is Hawk’s Inn Motel in Upper Hutt. Ideal for Wellington business visitors, families and groups.

Base in Cambridge Terrace has a private camper park close to the ferry terminal and offers a large selection of room types.

35

WELLINGTON

Gallipoli at Te Papa breaks records Gallipoli: The scale of our war at Te Papa is the most popular exhibition in New Zealand’s history, with more than 600,000 visitors to date. Created by Te Papa working closely with Weta Workshop, the exhibition is an emotional experience that sees many people leave in tears. “I’m quite overwhelmed by it all, I’m still trying to comprehend what just went on in there. Everything became real I think, war’s something not very tangible to the mind of a 21 year old, so it just became real, “says Chloe, a recent visitor.

The exhibition shows World War I through the eyes and words of eight ordinary New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances.

Each is captured frozen in a moment of time on a monumental scale – 2.4 times human size. The large scale sculptures took a staggering 24,000 hours to create, and countless hours were spent researching their rich histories. “I just sat in the rooms with the statues and it’s almost like you share an intimate moment with that person, because their eyes are so life like and looking into somebody’s eyes is a very personal thing to do,� says Callum, another recent visitor wowed by the exhibition. “It’s a really incredibly powerful thing. I think that’s what will stay with me.�

In Gallipoli: The scale of our war, the worlds of movies, modelmaking, and museums combine to take you on an immersive journey through the battlefields. You follow the action on 3-D maps and projections, view photos taken by soldiers on the front line, and see the weapons used in combat.

Lead curator Kirstie Ross of Te Papa says the exhibition challenges certain myths around the eight month Gallipoli campaign. “Our job as historians and curators is to uncover the human stories, and not shy away from the tough realities.�

Visitors can crawl into a dugout and hear the letters an officer wrote to his wife, just days before he was killed. Discover the cramped, filthy conditions that the soldiers faced – the lice, flies, and disease.

Photo: Michael Hall 2015 Š Te Papa

See inside a scale-model of the Maheno hospital ship. And hear from veterans many years after they served.

Cutting-edge technology was used to create 3-D maps, projections, miniatures, models, dioramas, and interactive experiences to bring this story to life.

In total, 2,779 Kiwis lost their lives on Gallipoli, and many others were scarred for ever. Gallipoli: The scale of our war takes you to the core of this defining event.

Exhibition Historical Director Dr Christopher Pugsley says the exhibition will help shape people’s views on the Gallipoli campaign. “This exhibition will determine how New Zealanders remember the Gallipoli campaign for the 21st century.�

The exhibition has been a major drawcard for visitors since opening in April 2015, and continues to attract big crowds. To avoid the queues, book an early bird tour at www.tepapa.govt.nz. Entry to the exhibition is free.

Best price (50% less than other camper parks) Central Wellington CBD location Large selection of room types Base private camper park close to ferry terminal %$6( :(//,1*721 Â&#x2021;ÂŹ &$0%5,'*( 7(55$&( Â&#x2021; )5((&$// Â&#x2021; ::: 67$<$7%$6( &20 Â&#x2021; $33 6725(

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WELLINGTON

Explore the cultural hub of Wellington from Travelodge Hotel As the leaves change colour and the weather cools down, Wellington is abuzz with activity. From street takeovers to a Kiwi music festival, immersing yourself in the lively city is a breeze.

Wellington’s street takeover is a must-see; the iconic Cuba Street is transformed into a magical, interactive playground. For a truly Kiwi experience, check out the Homegrown festival where New Zealand music takes centre stage on the city’s waterfront.

Travelodge Wellington is right at home in New Zealand’s energetic little city. Refreshingly simple, Travelodge provides the perfect platform to explore everything the city has to offer.

With great value and easy access to the harbourside, Travelodge Wellington is the ideal accommodation option to make the most of your stay. Providing guests a fabulous view in comfortable surroundings, the simple yet modern rooms make it the perfect place to unwind.

Immersing yourself in the world’s coolest little city is a hard ask on an empty stomach.

Fortunately, Travelodge guests who book online at TFEhotels.com/travelodge and use the special code “ONBOARD” will receive 50% off full buffet breakfasts during their stay, valid until 30 June 2016 (special code ONBOARD must be entered when booking to be eligible).

Bank of New Zealand Museum Explore this unique view of New Zealand’s social and financial evolution since 1861.

We offer flexible, interactive educational visits for students years 2-13.

P: 04 474 6933 E: museum@bnz.co.nz L1, 60 Waterloo Quay (Opposite the Railway Station) Open: 9am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday Free entry

Thorndon r to ou Pop in Coffee ity Grav and grab s kio k lf a hot e yours nk. dri

YOUR PERFECT TRAVEL COMPANION QUEST ON THORNDON 61-63 THORNDON QUAY, WELLINGTON E: host@questonthorndon.co.nz T: 04 333 0007 or 0800 895 134

37

WELLINGTON

A MUST SEE Pukeahu National War Memorial Park The bustling capital’s newest park has opened up the central city, and is quickly becoming one of Wellington’s most popular spots to gather, reflect and learn.

Paul Fisher Photography

New Zealand’s First World War Centenary Programme’s (WW100) legacy project Pukeahu National War Memorial Park opened in April 2015 in time to mark the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings. A crowd of 40,000 people covered the park and surrounding streets last year to participate in Pukeahu’s first Anzac Day dawn service.

It’s not just Anzac Day that has kept the park busy – there are plenty of other activities happening all year round. At 5pm each night the Last Post Ceremony is conducted at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior. Anyone can be a part of this daily remembrance—from laying floral tributes at the end of the ceremony to signing up to recite the Ode in either te reo Māori, or English, or even playing the bugle – there’s something for everyone. (For more details, visit mch.govt.nz/last-post.)

The park’s education programme has recently celebrated their 10,000th student visitor. Over the past year, primary and secondary students have visited from as far away as Halfmoon Bay in Stewart Island to Whangarei Heads in the Far North. The free programme offers school groups an opportunity to explore the Park and visit the National War Memorial, while learning about New Zealand's military history and national identity.

In the lead up to the centenary of the first Anzac Day commemoration held on 25 April this year, the park again will be holding a range of activities. Starting on 21 April, Wellington City Council’s Light and Sound show – WW1 Remembered will project images onto the carillon tower from 7-10pm every night through to Anzac Day. This spectacular show will bring to life imagery from 100 years ago, focusing on New Zealand’s connection to the Western Front – including the Battle of the Somme and the tunnellers who toiled beneath the French town of Arras.

On the morning of 25 April an Anzac Day dawn service will take place at the park at 5.30am, followed by the National Service

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WELLINGTON

WELLINGTON CENTRAL

HALSWELL LODGE

of Commemoration at 11am. The day will end with the Last Post Ceremony at 5pm, followed by the final light and sound show. Full details of the programme can be found at pukeahu.nz.

Whether you are visiting Wellington this Anzac Day or any other time of the year, Pukeahu National War Memorial Park is a great way to experience Wellington’s civic pride and New Zealand’s national identity. Also on the park’s doorstep are some of the capital’s great attractions, including Peter Jackson’s Great War Exhibition.

For more information about the park, visit pukeahu.nz. If you would like to find out more about New Zealand’s First World War Centenary Programme, visit WW100.govt.nz.

The Hawks Inn is a Qualmark 4 star rated motel with 16 well equipped 1 and 2 bedroom units, with self-catering kitchens, comfortable beds and a friendly atmosphere. All bathrooms are equipped with hairdryers and some bathrooms have spa baths.

• • • •

Budget hotel rooms Spacious 4-star units with kitchenette Luxury rooms with spa bath Sky sports, Movies, Free Parking and Free WIFI • Walking distance to Te Papa • Surrounded by restaurants • Close by Airport Bus station 21 Kent Terrace, Courtenay Place P: +64 4 385 01 96 E: reserve@halswell.co.nz

www.halswell.co.nz

Mud Cycles Experience Wellingtons best adventure activity!

Mountain biking & bike hire.

We also design rides catering for all levels. Options range from easy sightseeing adventures through to advanced technical trails for the thrill seekers!

MOUNTAIN BIKING & BIKE HIRE

Accommodation at Hawk’s Inn Motel is large and spacious, ideal for Wellington business visitors, families and groups.

The central courtyard of the motel has a fully fenced pool and spa pool which guests can relax in at the end of a busy day. All rooms have SKY TV and Freeview with complimentary wireless internet. There is ample off street free parking available at the front and back of the motel.

T: 0800 500 838 E: stay@hawksinnmotel.co.nz 704-706 Fergusson Drive, Elderslea, Upper Hutt Wellington

www.hawksinnm ote l .co.n z

Discover Wairarapa’s unique experience New Zealand made Gifts & Jewellery Souvenirs direct from on site factory Factory tours during workdays Short information video

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HAWK’S INN

MOTEL • UPPER HUTT, WELLINGTON

Great Neapolitan pizza, cooked with fresh ingredients, on homemade pizza dough and baked the traditional way.

DINNER Mon to Sun 5pm - 9pm LUNCH Wed to Fri 12noon to 2pm delivery to your door or hotel

54 Kent St, Carterton 06 379 4247 www.pauaworld.com

Hannah Warehouse, 13 Leeds St, Wellington Ph: 04 381 2929 www.pizzapomodoro.co.nz

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LOWER HUTT

Blanket, bag, picnic.

Go.

Catch the East By West Ferry from Wellington and hire a bike to explore the coast, lighthouses and lakes.

You can discover Wellington city’s hotspots and just minutes away, escape to an outdoor haven with bush walks, lush lawns, a balmy microclimate and plenty of locals making goodies to fill up your hamper.

Throw down a picnic rug, spread out some great food and make the most of the lingering warm weather. There’s loads of great spots to escape from it all and relax for the whole day. Gather up some treats for the ultimate picnic and indulge in more of Wellington region’s top tastes. La Bella Italia, is a great spot to stop in for a coffee and to collect deli supplies for your hamper and a little something for afterwards. Jackson Street, Petone is like street-sized-pantry with On Trays, Spice Rack, the Dutch Shop and more. Pick up organic cheeses and smoked yoghurt at Zany Zeus for a fresh taste of local goodness.

Here’s some top spots around Lower Hutt for an Autumn picnic: Rimutaka Forest Park / Catchpool Valley - Coast Road, Wainuiomata Get away to nature with plenty of grassed nooks and crannies and no cell phone reception. Make it a longer trip and explore one of the many walking tracks through native bush or camp overnight.

Williams Park - Days Bay, Lower Hutt It’s a rite of passage to jump off the wharf at Days Bay. Leap and holler your way into the sea then spend the day lazing about Williams Park. Pop into the store for an ice-cream or cook your lunch on the free barbeque. You can alternate eating and napping with swimming in warm sea water just across the road.

Butterfly Creek - From Kowhai Street, Eastbourne In a peaceful valley behind Eastbourne is Butterfly Creek. The picnic spot with four tracks leading to it and kids will enjoy the anticipation of finding the spot. Although, if they’re hungry and cranky take Kowhai Track, it’s the most direct. Silence is broken only 40

Escape to Rimutaka Forest Park

by bird calls in mature beech forest, and it makes it hard to think you’re only moments away from civilisation and you can test your arm span on the trunks of 400 year old rata trees.

Freewheel Lookout - Wainuiomata Mountain Bike Park, Waiu Street For the more eager, this picnic table with fabulous views has bragging rights as one of the Hutt Valley’s highest lunch spots.

Better snap some Facebook photos while you’re there.

Wainuiomata Recreation Area - Off Whitcher Grove, Wainuiomata Discover pure New Zealand amongst 340 hectares of native bush.

There's also plenty of mown grass for picnics. A short walk opens out to a great river swimming spot. After lunch take a walk to the historic dam – the source of Wellington’s water supply.

Percy’s Scenic Reserve - Off the bottom of Dowse Drive, Maungaraki Just off the motorway in Petone is a place where entire neighbourhoods meet to picnic on the large, flat, sheltered lawn.

See if you can find Wellington’s tallest waterfall, a waterwheel and a weta cave - they're all at Percy's Scenic Reserve.

LOWER HUTT

THE ITALIAN EXPERIENCE ..IN WELLINGTON

LA BELLAITALIA.CO.NZ

This is the place to drop into for your picnic supplies. A range of authentic Italian products, second to none at La Bella Italia.

E: ciao@labellaitalia.co.nz 1 0 N E V I S S T R E E T, P E TO NE

TRANQUILITY HOMESTAY BED AND BREAKFAST

Relax, unwind and enjoy a home away from away (We do all the work). Nested in approx one acre of native bush and gardens, Tranquility Homestay B&B is the ideal getaway with all the trimmings of an awesome holiday - AND we are PET FRIENDLY.

Take in the stunning views at Pencarrow Lighthouse – NZ’s first, list in 1859

Lions Park - The Esplanade, Petone Let your little lions roam free at this marine themed playground on the Petone foreshore.

It has a dedicated picnic spot, and a kiosk for ice-cream lovers and those who’ve forgotten their sandwiches. On Sundays between 1-4pm kids will love riding the mini train.

Matiu / Somes Island - Depart from Days Bay or Queens Wharf, Wellington The East by West Ferry can take you to the weird and wonderful Matiu/Somes Island - once a quarantine and POW camp and now a nature reserve and home to tuatara, weta and the little blue penguin. Try a Harbour Explorer tour of Wellington Harbour stopping over at Peter Jackson's home suburb and the iconic Petone Wharf - the start to the Rimutaka Cycle Trail.

For more information visit huttvalleynz.com or the Hutt City i-SITE Visitor Centre for more great ways to escape this Autumn.

Transport available to Pick Up or Drop off enquire availability of this. Use our peaceful B&B as your base to explore the Wairarapa, Kapiti, Hutt Valley and the rest of the Wellington region. Great walking tracks and we are on the cycle trail.

We are located in Upper Hutt, just off SH2, turn off to Staglands and only 1.3km down the Akatarawa Road on your right is Tranquility Homestay B&B awaiting your arrival.

Approximately 20 minutes from the Interislander Ferry.

136 Akatarawa Road, Birchville, Upper Hutt P: 0800 270787 or 04 5266948

www.tranquilityhomestay.co.nz 41

THORNDON

ThorNdon New Zealand’s oldest suburb Learn New Zealand’s stories and visit architectural gems in Wellington and the city’s oldest suburb – Thorndon – is a great spot to start your heritage journey.

Old St Paul’s Breathtakingly Beautiful!

Wellington’s famous…Old St Paul’s. Stunning architecture and a place of living history.

Old St Paul’s is one of New Zealand’s greatest heritage places, and one of the best examples of timber Gothic Revival architecture in the world.

A ‘must-see’ experience on your visit to Wellington. Guided tours every hour.

7 Days 9:30am – 5pm Closed Christmas Day and for short periods during special functions.

Gift shop

–

34 Mulgrave Street, Thorndon, Wellington T: 04 473 6722 E: oldstpauls@heritage.org.nz

Exhibition

–

Guided tours

Visit key areas of the historic Parliament Buildings. Enjoy your free 1 hour guided tour by specially trained staff.

The tour operates everyday, on the hour, from the Beehive.

Weekdays: 10am-4pm.

Saturdays and most public holidays: 10am-3pm.

Sundays: 11am-3pm. Tour route/times subject to change. Please arrive 15 minutes before the hour.

Gift shop open Parliament Buildings, Molesworth Street, Wellington P: 04 817 9503 F: 04 817 6743 E: tour.desk@parliament.govt.nz www.parliament.nz

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A visit to the capital city would not be complete without a visit to the historic Thorndon area.

Your first stop in Thorndon has to be the beautifully refurbished Parliament Buildings on the corner of Lambton Quay and Molesworth Street. The complex is made up of three architecturally distinctive buildings: the Edwardian neo-classical Parliament House, the Victorian Gothic Parliamentary Library and the unique 1970s-style Beehive building. Free admission and tours leave on the hour each day except public holidays.

Continuing with the architecture trail, one of New Zealand’s greatest heritage buildings is Old St Paul’s. The building is a fine example of 19th century gothic revival architecture adapted to colonial conditions and material. Constructed in 1866 entirely from native timbers, the glowing interior is enhanced by stunning stained glass windows. No longer a parish church but still consecrated, Old St Paul’s remains a place of spiritual significance to many. Join a guided tour and hear about the wonderful and sometimes quirky stories of the church, its site and its people on their journey from colony to independent nation. Old St Paul’s is just a few minutes stroll from the CBD. The nearby Wellington Botanic Garden features over 26 hectares of views, exotic forests, native bush and colourful floral displays and gardens. Visit the Duck Pond, Begonia House, award-winning Lady Norwood Rose Garden and the historic Bolton Street Memorial Park, where many of Wellington city’s pioneers are buried. The gardens open daily from dawn until dusk and entry is free.

Visitors to Thorndon can also check out the National Library and Archives New Zealand, where you can see the original Treaty of Waitangi. Finish up your day at one of New Zealand’s oldest public houses, The Thistle Inn at 3 Mulgrave Street, established in 1840. It offers casual bistro dining for both lunch and dinner.

NELSON TASMAN

Nelson Rocks Year Round A region rich with spectacular scenery and three national parks, all within 90 minutes from Nelson city, the Nelson Tasman’s diverse natural beauty entices visitors from far and wide. Famed for the easy lifestyle, gentle coastal landscapes and a vibrant arts scene, the region is home to passionate people, fuelled by fresh food, fine wine, generous sunshine, and a light sea breeze.

The autumn / winter months often enjoy more settled weather and milder temperatures than other parts of New Zealand, meaning many of the activities and attractions are year round. The following is a summary of all this fabulous region has to offer.

Nelson & Richmond Nelson is the main urban hub of the top of the South. The impressive Christ Church Cathedral stands guard over the city centre, while picturesque Wakefield Quay is home to yachties galore. The natural 13km Boulder Bank with its elegant lighthouse makes for a unique and remarkable entrance from Tasman Bay into the Port.

• Explore the many art, heritage and transport museums including The Suter, Nelson Provincial Museum, Founders Heritage Park, WOW® & Classic Cars Museum and NZ Classic Motorcycles • Enjoy a coastal farm walk in Cable Bay, fly the 3km long Skywire, take a scenic horse trek or quad bike trail with Happy Valley Adventures, or kayak in the estuary • Cycle from Nelson city to Tahunanui along the picturesque Rocks Road, tackle the Dun Mountain Trail or cycle part of Tasman’s Great Taste Trail self-guided or with Wheelie Fantastic Cycle Tours, Gently Cycling Company or Trail Journeys • Walk up to the Centre of New Zealand for spectacular views of Tasman Bay and the mountains beyond • Stroll around the famous Nelson Saturday Market, filled with art, craft and fresh local produce • Shop in Richmond in the largest undercover shopping precinct at the top of the South Island • Experience purpose-built mountain bike park at Richmond’s Silvan Forest

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NELSON TASMAN

BOUTIQUE HOTEL ACCOMMODATION & RESTAURANT IN GOLDEN BAY

Continental breakfast and WIFI always free.

Across the street from Pohara Beach in spectacular, secluded Golden Bay with easy access to Abel Tasman National Park and Farewell Spit; 10 mins from Takaka township. 10 en-suite rooms with flatscreen televisions, SKYTV, luxurious down bedding, and tea and coffee making facilities. Saltwater swimming pool, licensed dining room and cocktail lounge on-site.

P: 03 525 7998 E: stay@ratanuilodge.com

www.ratanuilodge.com

Wakatu Lodge, Nelson, provides private rooms with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. Situated close to the hospital, 5 minutes drive from town, twenty minute walk. Suited to budget conscious travellers; $49.00 single, $65.00 twin or double. Medium and longer term rates from $170.00 per week.

his ion t Ment eceive r d n ad a hour EE 24 ata a FR d ited m li un net inter r. he vouc

125-127 Waimea Rd, Nelson M: 0272134724 P: 03 5458444

www.wakatulodge.co.nz 44

Mapua, Moutere & Motueka Picturesque coastal and inland scenic highways link Nelson city to its rural surrounds.

Scattered throughout Mapua and the Moutere area are art galleries, wineries, roadside fruit stalls and gourmet food producers. As the closest town to the Abel Tasman National Park, Motueka makes a great base for this part of the region.

• Experience the scenic Tasman’s Great Taste Trail, winding beside beaches and estuaries, past vineyards and restaurants such as Petite Fleur at Siefried Estate, art galleries, craft breweries (11 in total) and delightful cafés, and ferry between Rabbit Island and Mapua • Follow the wine trail through historic Moutere village where you will often be able to chat with winemakers or viticulturists at their cellar door – self-drive or guided by Bay Tours or Wine Art & Wilderness • Savour the multiple talents of the Moutere Artisans collective: gourmet delights for cellar and panty, art from Icon Gallery and Sculpture Park, a meal at Mahana Estates • Skydive with Skydive Abel Tasman for unparalleled views over Abel Tasman National Park • Discover the Riwaka Resurgence, the source of the Riwaka River, and take a short walk to the site where the river emerges from ‘Marble Mountain’

Kaiteriteri, Marahau & Abel Tasman National Park Kaiteriteri and Marahau, with their stunning golden sand beaches and blue-green water, are the southern gateways to Abel Tasman National Park, which is New Zealand’s only coastal national park. The 52km Abel Tasman Coastal Track is one of the Department of Conservation’s ‘Great Walks’. The sheltered bays are popular for cruising, sailing and sea kayaking.

• Hike the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, staying in DOC huts or at DOC camping grounds, or book a guided walk and stay in beach front lodges within the park with Wilsons Abel Tasman National Park (pre-bookings essential) • Take a water-taxi or cruise from Marahau or Kaiteriteri along the beautiful coastline disembark for a short walk, re-joining the boat for your return journey • Hire a mountain bike and explore the trails at Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park with views over the stunning beaches • Experience the thrill of river canyoning • Select from the many guided and freedom sea kayaking options available or try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding

Golden Bay, Farewell Spit & Kahurangi National Park There’s just one road in and out of Golden Bay, and those who travel over Takaka Hill are richly rewarded by sweeping views of rugged mountains, fertile valleys and stunning beaches. At the northern most tip of the South Island is the remarkable 30km long Farewell Spit – this is one of the largest sand spits in the world and is designated as a

NELSON TASMAN

Wetland of International Importance. Kahurangi National Park is the second largest national park in New Zealand and home to the Heaphy Track.

• Experience Golden Bay’s thriving art community with more than 35 art galleries and museums or spend some time in Takaka township taking in the local café culture • Discover the incredible rock formations at wild wind-swept Wharariki Beach – by foot or on horseback with Cape Farewell Horse Treks • Catch your own salmon at Anatoki Salmon and have it smoked with your choice of herbs and spices • Walk the 78km Heaphy Track, one of Department of Conservation’s ‘Great Walks’ in the Kahurangi National Park, or mountain bike the Heaphy (in winter) or ride the Rameka Track all year round • Take a 4WD guided nature and bird tour along the 30km Farewell Spit with Farewell Spit Eco Tours • View some of the clearest water ever recorded at Te Waikoropupu Springs

Murchison, St Arnaud & Nelson Lakes National Park Murchison is one of the top ten white-water destinations in the world and gateway to some of the world’s best fly fishing. The alpine village of St Arnaud is on the edge of Nelson Lakes National Park, with both easy and challenging walks close by.

• Enjoy boating, sailing, kayaking and lakeside walks on or beside Lake Rotoiti or hike to the head of Lake Rotoiti and stay at the hut overnight • Feel the rush and power as you raft and jet boat with Buller Canyon Jets through granite canyons in the Buller Gorge • Fish for Brown Trout at Lake Rotoroa, Lake Rotoiti or the Buller River • Stroll through Murchison township and visit the museum for a fascinating insight into the history of Murchison and its people • Walk New Zealand’s longest swing bridge across the Buller River Gorge • Ski or snowboard at Rainbow Ski Area

CYCLING IN NELSON TASMAN This cycling mecca is home to two Great Rides as part of Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail. The Nelson/Richmond mountain bike trail network is an International Mountain Bicycling Association accredited Gold Ride Centre. For more information, and to purchase a temporary forest permit which you need to access a large number of Nelson’s mountain bike trails, visit a local bike shop, contact a local tour organiser or any i-SITE, who can create the perfect itinerary for you and arrange shuttle services. www.heartofbiking.org.nz and www.nelsonmtb.club Tasman’s Great Taste Trail – 112 kms are completed of the eventual 175kms, (on-going construction to 2018) NZ Great Ride, graded easy. Relish the offerings of sumptuous flavours from roadside stalls, wineries and craft breweries. Includes a ferry ride from Rabbit Island to Mapua Dun Mountain Trail - 43kms, NZ Great Ride climbing to over 878m. Beginning and ending in the heart of Nelson city, it follows an historic mining railway line to an alpine environment with stunning scenery Heaphy Track - 78.4kms, a remote, multi-day, winter-only ride, that has no equal in New Zealand. The track starts in Golden Bay and traverses to the West Coast with varying wide smooth trail to technical and rocky track with frequent creek crossings Rameka Track - 19kms, this track is a ride of two halves. The first is technically challenging through bush and river crossings, and the second half you can sit back and relax more Among the most popular mountain bike trail destinations in New Zealand, Nelson Tasman offers three purpose-built mountain bike parks: Codgers in Nelson city, Silvan Forest in Richmond and Kaiteriteri MTB Park, all just minutes from local services and the beach.

For more information on these trails, location maps and suggested routes visit the ‘Rides’ section on www.mtbtrailstrust.org.nz. Cycle trails offer unique and fun cycling to suit all tastes including urban off road trails like the Nelson City Centennial Cycleway curving from the CBD through to Atawhai and Marybank, and Stoke Railway Reserve, or Rocks Road to the southwest.

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NELSON TASMAN

What’s on NZ Antique and Classic Boatshow / Saturday 5th-Sunday 6th March Two days of antique and classic boat races and hydromatic relaxation on beautiful Lake Rotoiti, Nelson Lakes National Park

GODZone adventure Race / 2nd - 9th April 70 teams of four traverse 500+kms of stunning landscape non stop using navigation, mountain bike, kayak, white water and mountain trekking deciplines. The largest expedition adventure race in the world!

Kaiteriteri Gold Half marathon & 10km /

INSPIRE Festival / 13-16th April

Saturday 12th March Ranked in the top 100 beaches of the world … that’s one big reason to start and finish a Half Marathon on the golden sands of Kaiteriteri.

5th annual Ministry of Inspiration festival of science, technology, engineering, arts, maths and society for students aged 8-18yrs

Kaiteriteri 6 Hour Mountainbike / 16th April Marchfest 2016 / Saturday 19th March Nelson‘s beer flavoured festival - a celebration of music, food, fun and of course, proper beer. The 9th MarchFest promises to be another great day out for local beer lovers, eclectic music lovers, beer geeks, home brewers and of course the kids !

Mapua Easter Fair / Sunday 27th March Nelson’s largest one day market and fair. Great shopping, entertainment, food and fun for all the family.

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6 hours of non-stop riding fun through Kaiteriteri Mountainbike Park. Relay-style teams of 2, 3 or 4 share the 6 hours or enter solo if you dare!

Heritage Week / 16-24th April A full programme of guided walks, talks theatre and more celebrating Nelson’s rich history of discoveries.

nelson tasman

TAHUNA BEACH

KIWI HOLIDAY PARK & MOTEL

NELSON

New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best remembered holiday destination since 1926

Freecall reservations: 0800 500 501 www.tahunabeach.co.nz

Just minutes from the airport

Imagine, Experience, Discover

New Exhibition Open Daily

Deadly Beauty, Xi Zhang, Donghua University, China

10am-5pm 1 Cadillac Way

FIND OUT MORE GO TO: www.wowcars.co.nz

NELSON TASMAN

WILSONS ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK Discounts for Interislander and KiwiRail Scenic readers

Walking / Kayaking / Boats / Beachfront Lodges: It’s so easy to create your ideal holiday in New Zealand’s finest coastal National Park.

timetable, operating from April 19, the Vista Cruise makes the most of winter sunshine hours with one trip per day along the spectacular coast, departing from Kaiteriteri at 9.20am, returning at 4.10pm. This allows a full range of walking, sea kayaking and beach stop options.

Browse our website www.AbelTasman.co.nz then book online or call our friendly reservations team for helpful advice. Let us know how much relaxation or adventure you would like and we will book the trip to suit you.

Travel into the Park each day for as little as $50 per day (3-Day Explorer Pass). We can arrange coach transfers to Kaiteriteri.

Travel into the Park with speed, style and comfort aboard our Vista Cruise. With cafe, bar and the best views from comfortable seating around tables on upper and lower decks, stay onboard or choose a beach stop with walking options from 10 minutes to 6 hours.

Book a guided sea kayaking day trip to explore the natural habitat of NZ Fur Seals and sea birds in the heart of the park, or take a half-day paddle to famous “Split Apple Rock”.

Three Vista Cruise departures every day from Kaiteriteri allow you to spend a full day or just a few hours in the Park. For our low season

For a real treat, take a three or five-day overnight break within the boundaries of the National Park staying at Wilsons Abel Tasman’s beachfront lodges: Torrent Bay Lodge and Meadowbank Homestead in Awaroa.

10% Discount on any trip with promotion code ONBOARD Book online now at www.abeltasman.co.nz or call 0800 ABEL TAS (0800 223 582).

Adventures for All Ages Happy Valley Adventures at Cable Bay, Nelson is brimmed full of exciting activities to challenge the whole family.

Unique and innovative, the Skywire is a high-speed wire suspension ride designed to thrill while revealing the striking natural environment of Happy Valley. A combination of flying fox and chairlift sees the riders soar in a four-person carriage for three kilometres over a native forest valley, reaching speeds up to 100 kilometres per hour, both forward and backwards! The lasting memories of this 10 minute ride are the wonderful views of the native forest and silence broken only by the chorus of native birds.

Have some four wheelin' fun on the fully guided quad bike tours and choose from a one to three hour ride, climbing through beautiful native bush, to take in the spectacular mountain and sea views. Alternatively you can enjoy the beauty of Happy Valley on a horse trek designed for all abilities.

Happy Valley Adventures also operates the largest paintball theme park in Nelson. They provide first class entertainment and their paintballing sites offer a huge variety of specially themed paintball action, featuring forts, villages, trenches, creeks and much more. Happy Valley takes every necessary measure to ensure each individual's personal safety. We follow government guidelines in relation to health and safety for all visitors to our paintballing sites.

194 Cable Bay Rd, Nelson Free Ph: 0800 157 300 Local Ph: 545 0304 www.happyvalleyadventures.co.nz 48

Back on the ground, suit up for a paintball battle amid a purpose built fort and village or a 20 minute thrill ride in an Argo amphibious vehicle, spinning and splashing through rivers throughout the farm.

At the end of your adventure come and enjoy a great coffee and food at the centre's café.

To find out more, visit www.happyvalleyadventures.co.nz

NELSON TASMAN

HANDMADE IN NEW ZEALAND

Disappear & Relax

Bed & Breakfast package.

Stay in a one bedroom studio, only $199 per night including cooked breakfast for two people.

FREE Wifi*

*Conditions apply

The Grand Mercure provides all the comforts you could wish for â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Monaco Kitchen, health and beauty spa, gym, boutique jeweller, hairdressing salon and conference/wedding and event facilities.

Quote promotion code 64616 to take advantage of this great offer!

Available for stays between 1 April and 31 August.

6 Point Road, Monaco, Nelson P. 03 547 8233 E. hotel@monacoresort.co.nz www.monacoresort.co.nz

World renowned art glass and glass jewellery by glass artists Ola & Marie HĂśglund.

Creators of New Zealand art glass since 1982.

52 Lansdowne Road, Richmond, Nelson Ph: 03 544 6500 1767 Luggate-Cromwell Rd, Central Otago Ph. 027 804 7454

www.hoglundartglass.com

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MARLBOROUGH

Marlborough, it’s brilliant in Autumn Autumn in Marlborough promises clear, still days, a blaze of vineyard colour and calm waters in the Marlborough Sounds – making it one of the best times of the year to visit New Zealand’s sunniest region.

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Photo: Richard Briggs Photography

MARLBOROUGH

Harvest in Marlborough is not only about the wine, the regions high sunshine hours and brilliant climate is perfect for growing delicious produce. Marlborough’s crystal clear waterways are home to succulent scallops’ crayfish, famed Greenshell™ Mussels, New Zealand King Salmon and snapper, so grab your fishing or diving gear and gather yourself a feast of fresh seafood. The fun doesn’t stop with seafood; you can forage for seasonal specialities from the farm gate or Sunday Farmers Market, pick your own stone fruit, apples and berries or find boutique award winning olive oils at local groves.

You could also just dine among the vines at one of the many award winery restaurants – go on, we won’t tell a soul, but we bet you won’t be able to help yourself!

For all mussel and seafood lovers, the Havelock Mussel and Seafood Festival on Saturday 19th March is a must do. The local treat, Greenshell™ Mussels, will be on offer every way imaginable as well as a range of other seafood, wine, beer and some great New Zealand entertainment.

With 1,500km of New Zealand’s coastline tucked away in the Marlborough Sounds, jump in a kayak, water taxi, yacht, launch or mail boat, and explore our vast waterways. There are endless cruising options, and the calm autumn weather makes boating brilliant in autumn. While out on the water, there’s the chance for a quiet fish, or to simply pick up your book and read out on the water.

Discover the Pelorus Sounds with the Pelorus Mailboat. View mussel farms and visit isolated homesteads in quiet secluded bays.

When arriving back into Havelock why not try The Mussel Pot Restaurant where fresh mussels from the Pelorus Sound are served to your liking.

Alternatively take the ‘Magic Mail’ cruise with Beachcomber Cruises out of Picton cruising through the Queen Charlotte Sound. Visit historical places like Ship Cove which was a favourite anchorage of Captain Cooks in the late 1700’s.

There’s nothing like exploring the Sounds close up so grab a kayak and paddle around the bays and beaches – make sure you keep your eyes open for pods of dolphins, diving gannets and occasionally even Orca.

If you want to go a bit further afield then opt for a guided kayak.

You definitely won’t get lost and your guide will have plenty of stories about the area to keep you entertained. A great guided kayak trip is to the lovely Lochmara Lodge Wildlife Recovery & Arts Centre. From Picton your kayaking guide will show you the

wildlife that are abundant in the Queen Charlotte Sound and tell you the history of the area. Arriving at the lodge you can enjoy lunch in their waterfront café, discover the wildlife at the lodge and learn about their wildlife recovery programme. Along with a flying fox, beach, hammocks and art trail you will truly fall in love with your surroundings.

For land lovers, take a walk or bike along the 70km long Queen Charlotte Track. Treat yourself to brilliant ridgeline views across both Sounds as you walk the track over 3 - 5 days, or break it down into walks of an hour or two.

The track, which is a New Zealand Cycle Trails Great Ride, is a must do for keen mountain bikers. Bring your bike on the ferry to enjoy the stunning ridgeline views coupled with exhilarating downhill slopes. For those who like to travel light, there’s only a few metres between bike rentals on the Picton foreshore and a boat that will take you on a scenic one-hour journey to historic Ship Cove, where the track begins.

What sets the Queen Charlotte Track apart from others is the fact that your pack can be carried for you by boat to your next night’s accommodation. Evenings can be spent in accommodation ranging from a tent in a DOC campsite through to a 5 star resort, complete with massage and fine dining.

OPEN 24/7

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MARLBOROUGH

photo: MarlboroughNZ.com

Celebrating 150 years of mail boat delivery service

• The famous ‘Magic Mail’ run • Ship Cove cruise • Motuara Island bird sanctuary • Transport to Queen CharlotteTrack • One day or multi day walks • Mountain biking • On demand water transport • Holiday home transfers

The Waterfront, Picton / P: 03 573 6175 / E: office@mailboat.co.nz

www.beachcombercruises.co.nz

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Escape to Picton

Picton is the gateway to the Queen Charlotte Sound offers lovely cafes and views that match. The iconic Le Café on the waterfront is a favourite with locals, offers seasonal produce and has great coffee. Alternatively try Café Cortado that offers a South American infused menu including pizzas. For something more refined you cannot miss Escape to Picton – a boutique hotel and restaurant. Juliearna and her team will make your dining experience a memorable one.

Aviation buffs or Hobbit fans won’t want to miss the outstanding Knights of the Sky exhibition at Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. The exhibition features film director Sir Peter Jackson’s own collection of WW1 aircraft and artifacts. The collection is brought to life in sensational sets created by the internationally acclaimed talent of WingNut Films and Weta Workshop.

While you’re here, take to the air for a joyride in a vintage Boeing Stearman; helmet and googles provided!

Fancy a spot of shopping then look no further than No 4 Boutique located in Blenheim’s CBD. This ladies fashion store stocks international designers and fabulous accessories. For the ultimate chocolate experience just outside of central Blenheim and located in the heart of the wine trail is Makana Confectionery. Makana is truly special in every way from fresh cream truffles, chocolate drenched cherries and wickedly sinful caramel… what ever your sweet tooth desires.

Marlborough is home to one of New Zealand’s best road bike events, the Forrest Grape Ride, held on Saturday 2nd April 2016. The main race takes you on a spectacular 101km journey past the vines in the Wairau Valley to Picton and along Queen Charlotte Drive before returning to Forrest Estate.

For road bike newcomers, why not try out the 42km taster course. The best part is, there’s a party at the end to celebrate!

Marlborough fits all travel styles, from wine and food lovers to nature enthusiasts, there is something here for everyone. Marlborough is ready and waiting for you to visit this autumn. To plan your brilliant holiday now, visit MarlboroughNZ.com.

Marlborough – it’s Brilliant Every Day

MARLBOROUGH

Mmm...

The ultimate chocolate experience!

VIEWING AND TASTING!

Discover the spirit of the Marlborough Sounds.

• Accommodation with water views • Day trips from $49.00 plus Dinner Cruise options • Discover native birds, geckos and eels • Beach, hammocks, flying fox, free kayaks

• Access to the Queen Charlotte Track • Open fire in the restaurant on cool evenings Hand-made chocolates and other natural temptations

• Indulge in our luxurious baths for two

CNR RAPAURA & O’DWYER’S ROADS, BLENHEIM

Mail Runs & Cru

Opening hours: 9-5.30pm daily Freephone 0800 MAKANA or visit www.makana.co.nz

www.lochmara.co.nz S

ONLY 3 MINUTES FROM SPRING CREEK ALONG RAPAURA RD expres s

PE L O R U

Freephone: 0800 562 462 E: enquiries@lochmaralodge.co.nz

• Art shop and art trail to explore

19 18 •

• Waterfront Café/restaurant

A visit to the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory is an experience not to be missed. Come watch us make our tantalising confections and taste a few samples - complimentary, of course.

Makana - the ultimate chocolate experience!

PELORUS

•

sin ce

The Mussel CapiTal of The World in the heart of Havelock, Marlborough

MAIL BOAT HAVELOCK, MARLBOROUGH

The Only Way To See The REAL Marlborough Sounds

“Everyone who visits NZ should take this trip - it is interesting & spectacular & quite a privilege”

With the influence of our Italian Head Chef there are also a variety of seafood and non-seafood dishes, vegetarian and children’s options. Our menu has been carefully matched with local Marlborough wines.

We are easy to find – just look for the giant pot of mussels on the roof.

73 Main Rd, Havelock, Marlborough. Ph: 03 574 2824 www.themusselpot.co.nz

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Guaranteed fresh Marlborough mussels harvested in local waters, fresh and live to our door all year round.

• Meet the locals • Tour a Mussel Farm • Wildlife • History • And of course... deliver the Mail!

M

- Sandy S, Bris.

VERTISEM

Email: bookings@themailboat.co.nz www.themailboat.co.nz

Ph: 03 574 1088

53

MARLBOROUGH

From Knights of the Sky to Dangerous SkieS the story of aviation continues at Omaka

PHOTO: Gavin Conroy

Nearly ten years have passed since the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre first opened its doors in December 2006. Knights of the Sky – the Great War Exhibition, was ground breaking, not just in terms of the rarity and scale of the collection but in the creative way it was presented. No surprise, given that Sir Peter Jackson, film director and owner of the collection, played a pivotal role in bringing the exhibition to life in a series of dioramas utilising the formidable talents of WingNut films and enhanced by mannequins by Weta Workshop.

somewhat ambivalent about the process itself, have looked into the eyes of the beast and am now a true believer. All jests aside, however magnificent these flying machines, it is the stories of the men (and women) that flew and created them that truly captivate.

Like Knights of the Sky this exhibition will not be a warehouse of static aircraft lined up side by side. Instead visitors will be will be taken on a geographical journey as well as an historical one and like the conflict itself, it won’t be without its ups and downs. That’s a teaser of things to come, by the way!

This winter, a new chapter of the tale will unfold with the opening of the museum’s second exhibition; Dangerous Skies – the story of aviation in World War II. Whilst Knights of the Sky brings forth images of worthy foes and poignant moments of chivalry and respect, Dangerous Skies is a much darker narrative. Rare aircraft, staged with the theatrical flair Omaka has become famous for, will entertain both non-aviation and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Therein lies the problem with these kind of articles, you want to build tension, excite and titillate without giving all the good stuff away. Hopefully it’s working! What I can tell you is that the building which will house the new exhibition has been completed, the interior painted black and secret structures rise towards the ceiling. It is also not unusual for freakishly life-like packages to arrive and lurk in corners (or on the boardroom table!) to catch the innocent unaware. It’s a challenging and exciting time and the passion of those working on this project is infectious - in a good way. We hope you will join us upon completion of this journey and we look forward to sharing Dangerous Skies with you.

Doubters will need only to stand in front of a Griffon powered Mk.XIVe Spitfire or behold the only flyable Avro Anson Mk1 in the world to feel that magical pull. Myself, a frequent flier but

SIR PETER JACKSON’s

EXHIBITION ONLY AT THE OMAKA AVIATION HERITAGE CENTRE

COMING WINTER 2016

DANGEROUS SKIES WW2 EXHIBITION

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MARLBOROUGH

About Marlborough Marlborough has 20% of New Zealand’s coastline, 75% percent of its wine production, excellent bike trails, awesome walking tracks and an abundance of gourmet food, grown right here.

Climb awe inspiring mountains for breath taking views, plunge into fresh rivers with pure sparkling waters, cruise the beautiful Marlborough Sounds with its wonderful wildlife, and devour some of the best gourmet produce in the country.

Boutique

Wash it all down with a glass of our world famous Sauvignon Blanc, and find out why we love this place.

Awatere & Pacific Coastline The Awatere Valley is steeped in Maori and colonial history, from moa hunters to early settlers. These days farmland and vineyards merge, with the sub region’s wines gaining a prominence around the world. The snowcapped Mt Tapuae-o-Uenuku, central to Maori legend, stands tall above the golden hills, while to the east, the Pacific Ocean sparkles in brilliant blue.

Drive south on State Highway 1 and you’ll have that dazzling view on one side and the snowy Kaikoura Ranges on the other.

Havelock, Pelorus & Kenepuru Tucked in beside beautiful wetlands, gorgeous native bush, and the magical Kenepuru, Mahau and Pelorus Sounds, lies the Greenshell ™ Mussel capital of the world. In the waters beyond, you’ll find rich history, wonderful landscapes and perhaps a fat snapper or two. Access these magical waterways by boat, or walk to beautiful corners like Nydia Bay. You can also explore the area on the Kenepupu Road, or by driving via the stunning Pelorus River to French Pass, gateway to D’Urville Island.

CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR & ACCESSORIES

P: 035783004 | E: hayley@no4.co.nz www.no4.co.nz The Forum, Market Place, Blenheim

PHOENIX MOTOR INN

Blenheim & Wairau Valley A relaxed town in the heart of Marlborough’s wine country, Blenheim has great cafes, galleries and shops, wrapped up within the picturesque Taylor and Opawa rivers. There's an abundance of vineyards and cellar doors surrounding Blenheim, so explore the beautiful Wairau Valley and discover why the world is in love with Marlborough wine.

Picton & Queen Charlotte Sound Picton is a beautiful port town, poised at the edge of the Queen Charlotte Sound, and is home to fantastic cafes, restaurants, galleries and specialty shops. Go by boat, bike or car to explore the intricate waterways beyond, with island bird sanctuaries, secluded bays, protected wildlife, luxurious resorts and the brilliant Queen Charlotte Track.

For top accommodation in Marlborough the number one motel is Phoenix Motel offering the best deal with FREE WIFI. If you’re looking for a 4 star Qualmark rated motel property then the Phoenix Motor Inn is the perfect place.

All our units are away from the traffic noise and are quiet. We offer a range of - studio, one bedroom and 2 bedroom units.

P: 0800 50 60 10

174 Middle Renwick Rd, Blenheim E: stay@phoenixmotorinn.co.nz

www.phoenixmotorinn.co.nz 55

MARLBOROUGH

New Zealand's Multigem at Stunning Seaside Gems What if the gold miners of the late 1800’s knew that some of the rocks they were tossing aside, were far more precious and rare, than the gold that many gave their lives to find?

The Goodletite form of Multigem is the only gemstone in the world that can be found in no other place but the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. The Gem is composed of Ruby, Sapphire and Tourmaline crystals in Emerald green Fuchsite.

Exclusive to Seaside Gems in Picton. Individual one off pieces of stunning Multigem jewellery, are made by Seaside Gems’ team of designers and jewellers.

The company also stocks New Zealand’s finest hand blown glass and other beautifully hand crafted items.

For more information check out Seaside Gems facebook page, call us on 03 573 8151 or email us at seasidegems@xtra.co.nz

Whether you are in a hurry to catch the ferry or train, or want a place to relax and enjoy great food with an outstanding waterfront view, Café Cortado is the place to go in Picton. With indoor & outdoor seating.

We serve contemporary European cuisine with a strong focus on seafood and a slight South American infusion. There is something for everyone.

FREE WIFI WHEN YOU DINE WITH US OPEN 7 DAYS • 8AM TILL LATE BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER TAPAS, PIZZA - EAT IN OR TAKEAWAY LOOK FOR US ON FACEBOOK & TRIP ADVISOR

Corner of High St and London Quay

P: 03 573 5630

SERVICING INTERISLANDER PASSENGERS SINCE 2000

www.cafecortado.co.nz 56

NELSON TASMAN

Brereton Blue Pearls The original home of Blue Pearls

Brereton Blue Pearls The original home of Blue Pearls

Unique to New Zealand and grown locally in Marlborough, our rare andtoexclusive Blue Pearls are Unique New Zealand and grown locally in Marlborough, our hand-set to the highest rare and exclusive Blue are standard on-site byPearls professional hand-set toin the highest Jewellers 18ct Gold and standard on-site by professional Silver.

Jewellers Sterling in 18ct Gold and Sterling Silver.

Unknown to most travellers, nestled next to the navigation beacons which guid vessels entering Marlborough Sounds the Port of Picton liesguide the only far Unknown to most the travellers, nestled next to theand navigation beacons which all the world Sounds to produce Brereton Blue Pearls. vessels entering the Marlborough and the Port of Picton lies the only farm in the world to produce Brereton Blue Pearls.

Formerly known as an Akaroa Blue Pearl, the Brereton Blue Pearl has over 30 yea Formerlyexperience known as an Akaroa Blue Pearl, the Brereton Blue has over 30and yearsisof industry and knowledge to produce thePearl highest lustre, one o industry experience and knowledge to produce the highest lustre, and is one of the rarest cultured pearls in the world. rarest cultured pearls in the world.

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- Pearl farm on Arapawa Island.

- Pearl farm on Arapawa Island.

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manufacturing, including wedding Our website and waterfront Picton store are currently theand only places in the world you can buy these stunning gems. engagement rings, on site.

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marlborough wine

marlborough

New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier winemaking region

By JO MAY It has been said that there is no wine anywhere in the world that tastes like the wine of Marlborough â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the balance of extraordinary purity and intensity of flavours set around impressive aroma, distinctive fruit characteristics and appealing balanced acidity is superb.

photo: Richard Briggs Photography

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MARLBOROUGH WINE

Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine growing region, producing three quarters of New Zealand’s wine and specialising in Sauvignon Blanc grapes.

The variety that put New Zealand onto the international stage is still a favourite with 90% of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc coming from Marlborough. The dry fruity wine can be found all over the world. If you are a not a fan of “Savvy” as the locals refer to it do not be alarmed there are many more varietals on offer in Marlborough; Pinot Noir, Methode Traditionelle, aromatics and Chardonnay are all on offer at most wineries.

With harvest in full swing and the vines showing off their vibrant orange and red leaves, autumn is the perfect time to visit your choice of Marlborough’s 35 cellar doors. Stop by the Picton, Blenheim or Havelock i-SITEs and book yourself on a guided tour or pick up a copy of the Marlborough Wine Trail map and selfdrive yourself around your favourite cellar doors. Whether you are looking for boutique or big name, organic or sustainable, red, white or sparkling Marlborough can deliver it in spades.

If biking and wine is more your thing, then hire a bike and ride Marlborough’s Golden Mile through Rapaura and Renwick. Enjoy the calm Marlborough weather and stunning autumnal scenery with this 6km ride featuring nine wineries, with dining, art and cold drink stops along the way.

There is nothing like visiting the home of your favourite wine for a tasting, because just like wine tastes better in a glass it also tastes better from the winery.

No trip to Marlborough is complete without including lunch in a vineyard restaurant, good wine demands great food and they certainly deliver on both counts. The natural resources of the area do not stop at the vineyards, taste Marlborough Sounds seafood,

wild game, stone fruit, olives and nuts are all in abundant supply on restaurant menus expertly matched with the wineries offerings.

Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen is a local favourite and offers views towards the Richmond Range. The sunny courtyard offers outdoor dining with some set among the vines. On cooler days in Autumn an extended veranda section can ensure you are sheltered with floor to ceiling glass sliding doors. Along with their award winning wines they offer an extensive menu based on the best seasonal produce and delicacies Marlborough has to offer. Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen is also the perfect place to visit for morning or afternoon tea with a selection of muffins and hot drinks available all day.

Whitehaven Cellar door located at the heart of Marlborough’s Golden Mile onsite at The Vines Village. Open seven days a week for wine tasting and sales why not try one of their elegant sauvignon blanc’s, a gorgeous pinot or even a lovely rosē.

Travelling further afield heading north towards Picton visit Johanneshof Cellars. Experience New Zealand’s first underground rock cellar and taste their award winning wines. Why not try their flagship wine – Gewurztraminer which consistently is awarded gold medals annually.

Classic New Zealand Wine Trail Marlborough is part of the Classic NZ Wine Trail which is a self-drive touring route around wineries that also leads you onto the Wellington, Wairarapa and Hawke’s Bay regions in the North Island. The trail covers more than 80% of New Zealand's wine production regions.

For further information on Marlborough's wine region visit winemarlborough.nz

CRUISE THE VINES ON A BIKE Wine Tours by Bike, Marlborough's premier vineyard bike tour company, is located in Renwick, the heart of the Marlborough Wine Region which has the greatest concentration of cellar doors in the country.

“ONE OF THE BEST ATTRACTIONS IN NEW ZEALAND” NO1 FOR CRUISING AROUND RENWICK’S BEAUTIFUL CELLAR DOORS.

Eco friendly, cost effective and possibly the most fun you’ll ever have on a bike!

Don’t risk drinking and driving or waste precious time biking the 12km (1hrs biking) on the busy State Highways out from Blenheim.

We offer FREE pickup & drop off to/ from Blenheim & Renwick.

Self-guided tours so you have the flexibility to go where you want without feeling pressured to keep up with others

Full emergency backup service Bottle of spring water & helmet

SINGLE CRUISER $45.00 p/p CRUISER TANDEM $40.00 p/p CRUISER TRIKE $45.00 p/p Also Kids Seats, Trailers and Tow-alongs FREE OF CHARGE

SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR UP TO DATE TOUR START TIMES

Your Hosts: Steve & Jo Hill Hillsfield House, 33 Blicks Rd, Renwick, Marlborough P: 03 572 7954 M: 021 432 276 E: info@winetoursbybike.co.nz

www.winetoursbybike.co.nz 60

With flat sealed roads and short distances between the wineries, each tour can be enjoyed by young and old alike, whether you are travelling by yourself, a couple or a group.

Leave your cares behind as you make your way to Hillsfield House to begin your cycling adventure. Alternatively, you can be picked up from your local accommodation and taken on a personalised tour that caters to your unique abilities and needs.

Your friendly and experienced guides will show you their personal favourite routes, scenic spots, vineyards, wineries, vineyard restaurants and cafes, arts and crafts and olive oils.

The fully inclusive package includes a base in the vineyards (no need to cycle the 20km round trip from Blenheim to Renwick before you reach a winery), a personalised tour route and map with recommendations for wine tasting and dining and your choice of well-maintained bicycles, helmets, bottled water and four bottle wine carriers to hold those allimportant purchases.

Choose between a variety of different self- guided tours ranging from early starts and late drop offs to short afternoon tours. With a complimentary pick up and drop off service, you are in safe and experience hands with Wine Tours by Bike. To find out more, visit www.winetoursbybike.co.nz

MARLBOROUGH WINE

DID YOU KNOW 75% of New Zealand’s total wine production comes from Marlborough 85% of Marlborough’s wine production is their flagship varietal Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough’s share of New Zealand’s wine exports is approximately 1.1 billion (out of a total 1.39 billion)

Open wide and say

ahh!

Come and see the newly refurbished Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.

H O U R S 9 A M - 5 PM

hy Trop er Wiantionns Wine

Six N nge 2015 e Chall lborough r & Ma e Show Win

Open 7 days a week Selmes Road Rapaura Marlborough

Bookings Recommended Freephone 0800 317 319 www.saintclair.co.nz

61

KAIKOURA

Breathtaking Kaikoura

By JO MAY

Kaikoura is one of New Zealand’s top nature tourism destinations. This is based on year-round whalewatching and spectacular scenery - a peninsula of wild rugged coastline, between the Pacific Ocean and the snow-capped peaks of the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges, rising to 2600m and forming a dramatic background for the marine life that is often seen close to shore.

Nature Tours Kaikoura Resident sperm whales are the main attraction, but there are at least another eight whale varieties regularly seen including the humpback and blue whale. Other native populations include New Zealand fur seal, rare Hector’s and Dusky dolphins, Royal albatross and a huge variety of seabird species.

Multi award-winning tourism operator Whale Watch Kaikoura each year takes around 100,000 visitors out on to the Pacific Ocean to view (with 95% success rate) the giant sperm whales that frequent this rich marine environment. Whale Watch Kaikoura is dedicated to providing a quality whale watching experience while respecting and carefully managing the use of a rare natural resource. The experience is enriched with stories of the local people, their traditions and their history. The company works actively to reduce its carbon footprint.

Kaikoura Kayaks offers unique kayaking and swimming experiences with fur seals, dolphins and fur seals. Eco friendly sea kayak tours offer a safe, enjoyable, interactive experience, with little effort and a whole lot of good fun! Get up close to the friendly locals and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Encounter Kaikoura has been providing boat tours to swim 62

with and watch the dusky dolphins and other wildlife since 1989.

Dolphin Encounter specialises in providing an exhilarating experience of swimming or watching wild dusky dolphins in their natural environment off the Kaikoura coast. Albatross Encounter takes advantage of the epic diversity of albatross species and numerous other pelagic birds all located within 15 minutes of Kaikoura’s coastline.

Walk Kaikoura Kaikoura offers fantastic land based activities. If you enjoy walking and hiking then here are a few favourites walks to consider when visiting the region.

Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway – 3 hours A natural seal colony is at the beginning of the walk. Amazing views and viewpoints, a stunning walk over the Kaikoura Peninsula over a well maintained track with interpretation panels along the way.

Mt Fyffe – 8 hours return to the summit The track winds up to fantastic views of Kaikoura’s peninsula and farmland at 1602 metres above sea level. Other options- Mt Fyffe Hut ( 5 hours return) or the lookout point ( 2 hours return).

Puhi Puhi Reserve- 30 minutes return A flat loop track through a scenic reserve, lowland Podocarp forest. The native trees here can be up to 1000 years old.

Hinau Track- 45 minute loop walk The loop takes you through an unusual forest with a number of large hinau trees. There are many mahoe, putaputaweta, broadleaf, tree fuschia, pigeonwood and a stand of kanuka.

KAIKOURA

Taste Kaikoura Eating and dining out in Kaikoura you will be spoiled for choice. Make sure you sample the delights of Kaikoura’s ocean larder – especially the local crayfish.

Kaikoura means ‘eating crayfish’ in Maori (kai = food/eat, koura = crayfish) so it’s not surprising that eating crayfish is a must- do in a town by that name.

New Zealand crayfish is marketed as lobster in some overseas market, but, in reality, these are two different species. While crayfish resembles lobster, it is much smaller, averaging 5-15cm (2-6 inches) in length. A common way to cook crayfish is to boil whole, split and serve with a seafood dressing.

Feast on fresh crayfish for an early lunch. ‘Seafood Caravans’ dot the highways surrounding Kaikoura selling crayfish and that day’s seafood catch – you can’t get fresher than that! Sitting on the beach devouring crayfish cooked with garlic and butter and looking out to the Pacific Ocean is a special kind of kiwi bliss.

The most famous seafood caravan is Nin’s Bin located north of Kaikoura township operated by a local family who have been selling crayfish here since 1977.

photo: Sara-Orme

photo: Neil Protheroe, Manakau Lodge

New Zealand’s Ultimate Year Round Marine Experience

Freephone 0800 655 121

www.whalewatch.co.nz 63

KAIKOURA

KAIKOURA KAYAKS AUTUMN MARINE LIFE ENCOUNTERS Autumn is a great time to kayak with Kaikoura’s marine life as you are guaranteed to paddle with Fur Seals and have chance encounters with Dusky Dolphins and Blue Penguins.

In Kaikoura, it’s no secret that the marine life outnumbers the humans so why not meet some of the locals of the ocean world.

Whether you want to paddle with marine life, go fishing, hire your own kayak or up skill your paddling through a kayak school – it’s all available to you at Kaikoura Kayaks.

The Kayak Store is stocked with top of the range gear and equipment to purchase that includes spray decks, paddles, buoyancy vests, dry tops and much more. For the nature lovers, the curious New Zealand Fur Seals, Dusky Dolphins and Blue Penguins are only a few paddle strokes away.

Kaikoura Kayak’s qualified local guides would love to introduce them to you around the Kaikoura Peninsula.

Kaikoura Kayak’s hassle free, half-day, eco friendly tours offer a safe, enjoyable and interactive experience with little effort and a whole lot of good fun - suitable for all ages and abilities, operating year round. Families most welcome.

Kaikoura’s Orginal Operator est. 1998 For more information: or to book, free phone 0800 452 456 or visit www.kaikourakayaks.nz

Swimming with and watching Kaikoura’s Dusky Dolphins!

Enter the world of the dusky dolphin and experience the grace and beauty of the most acrobatic and interactive of all dolphin species.

Kaikoura is regarded as the best place in the world to see seabirds. Get up close to albatross and many other ocean-going bird species found close to shore.

THESE WORLD-CLASS TOURS ARE IN HIGH DEMAND. BOOK WELL IN ADVANCE !

Sensational food, divine coffee at our beachfront Café. Quality jewellery, clothing, art and much more in our Gift Shop and Gallery!

96 Esplanade, Kaikoura, NZ. Phone (03) 319 6777 Freephone 0800 733 365

www.encounterkaikoura.co.nz 64

hanmer springs

Hanmer Springs New Zealand’s alpine spa village – an absolute must-do Just 90 minutes’ easy drive from Christchurch you’ll find Hanmer Springs, a village quite unlike other small towns in New Zealand.

Surrounded by mountains and forests, with giant redwood trees and boutique shops lining its main street, Hanmer Springs offers everything a visitor expects from a South Island holiday… 100% pure New Zealand scenery, adventure tourism, warm kiwi hospitality and cafes and restaurants serving the country’s best food and wine.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa sits at the heart of the village, an award-winning complex with natural, mineral-rich waters that are warmed by heat from the earth’s core – a process that takes 173 years.

You can sit and soak in the famous waters amid native gardens, have waterfalls and spouts massage your aches and pains away or unleash some energy in the fantastic leisure area (complete with hydroslides and the South Island’s only aquatic thrill ride, the SuperBowl!).

Come visit – you’ll soon see why this is one of the South Island’s best destinations and why this small village (population less than 1,000) attracts more than half a million visitors every year. photo: christchurchnz.com

www.hanmersprings.co.nz

65

christchurch

Christchurch Gateway to the South Island By JO MAY Christchurch city promises an eclectic mix of historic elegance and contemporary culture. As the gateway to the South Island, it's a must on any itinerary.

Described by Lonely Planet as a "vibrant city in transition, coping resiliently and creatively,” Christchurch's energy is evident wherever you go. The city has bounced back after the Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 with innovative new attractions, as well as some old favourites.

Visit the Re Start container mall, the transitional Cardboard Cathedral, and some of the many pop up restaurants and bars.

Contemporary art galleries, boutique shops and open-air markets add to Christchurch’s creative vibe.

Traditionally known as the Garden City, Christchurch’s award winning Botanic Gardens are over 150 years old and boast an enviable collection of exotic and native plants.

The Avon River flows gently through the city centre, making Edwardian punt rides an iconic way to sightsee. Alternatively, catch a ride aboard the Historic Tram or take a bicycle tour to learn about Christchurch's history.

Other popular activities include the International Antarctic Centre, Orana Wildlife Park and walking, mountain biking or driving through the Port Hills for stunning views of the city and coast.

photo: ChristchurchNZ.com

‘BRING YOUR CREW TO THE MUSEUM’ DISPLAYS FLIGHT SIMULATOR GUIDED TOURS CAFÉ & SHOP

FREE ENTRY

Reach for the skies The Air Force Museum of New Zealand is the national museum for the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) and one of New Zealand’s premier attractions.

Located in Christchurch on the site of the former Air Force Base at Wigram, the Museum offers a unique and memorable visitor experience. With over 30 historic aircraft, handson exhibitions and programmes, guided tours and even a flight simulator, all with FREE entry, it is the ideal place to bring the whole family for a great day out.

The Mosquito Flight Simulator 45 Harvard Ave, Wigram, Christchurch p 03 343 9532 OPEN DAILY 10am - 5pm

airforcemuseum.co.nz 66

Experience one of World War Two’s most thrilling aerial raids in our Mosquito flight simulator. Fly over the Norwegian fiords in search of enemy battleships in a replica Royal Air Force Mosquito fighter-bomber cockpit. Test your flight skills and dodge the battleships as they return fire.

For more visit www.airforcemuseum.co.nz

AKAROA / BANKS PENINSULA

Akaroa

A Hidden Gem in Banks Peninsula

By JO MAY

photo: ChristchurchNZ.com

A journey around this beautiful peninsula will reward you with picturesque vistas at every turn, a thriving artisan culture and a marine environment teaming with wildlife.

Banks Peninsula is a peninsula of volcanic origin on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand. It has an area of approximately 1,150 square kilometres and encompasses two large harbours and many smaller bays and coves.

To get to Akaroa & Banks Peninsula you have to make a decision to go there. It’s the end of the road. It’s not on a main tourist route and not everyone will find it for that very reason.

If you are into best kept secrets this is the one for you.

It’s not one of those little gems you just happen to stumble across on your way to somewhere else. It’s off the beaten track yet only just over hour from Christchurch. “Another world” and “paradise” are words often applied by visitors. The mayor called it the "jewel in the crown of Canterbury".

History In 1838 a French whaler, Captain Langlois, decided that Akaroa was an ideal location for a town that could service the whaling ships. He subsequently acquired the peninsula in a dubious land deal with the local Maori. He then returned to France and arranged for a group of French and German families to sail to New Zealand, with the intention of forming a French colony.

However, by the time Langlois and his colonists arrived at Banks Peninsula in August 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi had already been signed (the signatories including two Akaroa chiefs) and New Zealand's first Governor, Hobson, had declared sovereignty over the whole of New Zealand.

In spite of this unexpected turn of events, the French settlers decided to stay on. Akaroa's French street names and charming colonial cottages are their legacy.

Akaroa Located on the south east side of the deep, sheltered Akaroa Harbour, the charming township of Akaroa has a special point of difference - it was the only French settlement in New Zealand.

Akaroa is Maori for Long Harbour.

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AKAROA / BANKS PENINSULA

A web of walking tracks from the short & gentle to rugged day & multi day; sailing, surfing, rock climbing, cycling, kayaking and swimming with dolphins all cater to those who want to expend some energy.

For people who like to explore, Banks Peninsula has a multitude of adventures waiting to happen. From hands on action to soft option tours the ways of discovering the unique wildlife and diverse scenery are many and varied.

How about an Alpaca farm tour experience with Shamarra Alpaca located near French Farm in Akaroa? Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and a hands on, interactive alpaca farm tour.

Take a tour with a difference and get up close and personal with these friendly alpacas.

The small seaside town simply oozes charm. Nods to its history as a French settlement are everywhere, with pretty French-named streets, lined with historic cottages cloaked in roses. The best way to explore Akaroa is on foot.

While away the hours browsing boutique shops and craft galleries, and stop for a pick-me-up of fine local food and wine at a café or restaurant overlooking the shimmering waters of Akaroa Harbour. Relaxation doesn’t get much better than this!

Little River The gateway to Banks Peninsula is the quaint town of Little River.

Little River is approximately 30 minutes’ drive from Akaroa and 45 minutes’ drive from Christchurch. It is on State Highway 75, which

Akaroa: Home of the Original Blue Pearl

Blue Pearl Gallery Akaroa Harbour Wharf, Akaroa 7520 P: 03 304 7262 E: pearls@nzbluepearls.co.nz www.nzbluepearls.co.nz

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AKAROA / BANKS PENINSULA

links Christchurch and Akaroa. Little River is a great place to visit for walks and mountain biking, and is a very popular stop over for its cafe and art gallery.

The town is the end (or the start) of the easy 50km Little River Cycle Trail. The Christchurch to Little River Rail Trail mostly follows the route of a 19th century railway line between Hornby and Little River, and passes through Prebbleton, Lincoln, Motukarara and Birdlings Flat.

The Art gallery at Little River is simply unique and a ‘must see’. The gallery is intriguing and hosts New Zealand art, painting, jewellery, sculpture and exquisite giftware. littlerivergallery.com For something uniquely different and perhaps the only accommodation of its kind in the world is Silostay in Little River. Converted from a humble grain silo this innovative, stylish and enviro friendly type of accommodation will prove to be out of this world.

SILOSTAY SERVICED APARTMENTS

Converted from humble grain silo to innovative, stylish, enviro friendly accommodation. Within your self-contained luxuriously comfortable silo the aim is to provide a welcoming & embracing experience to nourish mind, body & spirit.

A unique experience, the only accommodation of its kind in the world!

Cutting edge, bespoke design, the industrial theme of the downstairs kitchen surrenders to a sumptuous 1st floor bedroom & balcony, accessed via a sculptural steel staircase.

Explore Banks Peninsula – secluded bays, stolen vistas, abundant wildlife, gourmet treats.

4+ Stars.

SH 75, Little River, Canterbury P: (03) 325 1977 E: info@silostay.kiwi.nz

www.silostay.kiwi.nz

Akaroa Lighthouse

Short Walks Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Walking is a popular activity on Banks Peninsula and it's no wonder, with charming vistas and stunning views to reward every footstep. Explore the dramatic outer bays and take your time to soak in the magic of the region. Whether you are looking for a gentle stroll around the town or something more energetic, Banks Peninsula has a beautiful short walk for you.

Coastal Walks Explore the rugged coastline and soak up the stunning vistas of Banks Peninsula with a variety of short coastal walks. It is best to avoid high-tide to make the most of your experience.

• Britomart Monument - Duration of walk: 1 hour circuit Akaroa lighthouse Akaroa Lighthouse and historical monument. The Britomart monument commemorates a key moment in New Zealand history, when the British proclaimed sovereignty over the South Island. This walk has wonderful views over Akaroa harbour.

ALPACA farm tours & Knitwear

Wander through herds of grazing alpacas and enjoy breathtaking views of Akaroa Harbour. Bookings essential.

Shamarra Alpaca knitwear is 100% dye free, sustainable, renewable and all made in New Zealand.

150 Alpacas & farm shop

328 Wainui Main Road, Akaroa. (2km past French Farm) Phone 03 304 5141 | www.shamarra-alpacas.co.nz

• Ngaio Point - Duration of walk: 1 hour circular (allow extra times to enjoy beaches avoid high tide) Take Highway 75 to the Okains Bay road crossroads and turn into the Ngaio Point subdivision on the headland. Park about 100m further along Monarch Drive in the lay-by on the left. The walk starts at the wire gate adjacent to the lay-by.

Wonderful views of the Akaroa harbour and ideal for families with active children to take a beach picnic and go for a swim.

• Onawe - Duration of walk: 1 hour there and back Drive to the Duvauchelle Hotel car park and walk to Onawe.

Avoid at high tide and this is a sacred Maori site, please walk with respect and refrain from eating. Interesting volcanic geological rocks and wonderful views over the harbour.

69

mackenzie/aoraki

The Magnificent south Aoraki / Mount Cook Mackenzie

By JO MAY

Aoraki Mount Cook Mackenzie is situated in the centre of New Zealand's majestic South Island. The region is renowned for its incredibly clear starry nights, brilliant sunny days, remarkable turquoise blue lakes, valleys of emerald green and snowcapped mountains.

Shaped by extreme forces of nature, massive glaciers have scoured the land leaving a trail of lakes and rivers across the landscape.

Today you will see awesome mountain ranges - the snow capped Southern Alps stretching across the western horizon. Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain and towers over the expansive countryside.

Lake Tekapo Prepare to be entranced as you gaze out at the mighty ice-capped mountains which stare down at their reflected image rippling on the calm waters of Lake Tekapo.

Built in 1935, the world famous Church of the Good Shepherd offers awe-inspiring views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps through its altar window.

Nothing can describe the beauty that awaits you in the Mackenzie region and that beauty doesn't stop when the sun goes down. After a day of checking out the panoramic vista of Mount John, hiking around the lakeshore of Tekapo and 70

pampering yourself at Tekapo Springs, you will be awe-struck by the vast beauty of New Zealand's night-sky at the Earth and Sky observatory tours. Let the Milky Way unfold in front of your eyes as your astronomy guide takes you on a journey across the Universe. From planets and stars to distant galaxies, Mount John is your gateway to the Universe. Situated in an IDA gold rated Aoraki Mount Cook is truly unforgettable where you can star gaze by night and hike by day.

Remarkable Aoraki Mount Cook Aoraki Mount Cook is New Zealand's highest mountain, with a height of 3,754 metres. At the foot of the mountain sits the village of Mount Cook - a comfortable haven in one of the most unforgiving parts of New Zealand. On every side, the Southern Alps scrape the sky.

You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be a mountaineer to interact with the stunning scenery; there are various alpine walks beginning near the village, all about three hours return. Flightseeing, tours to the Tasman Glacier and stargazing are other ways to optimise your time here.

Aoraki Mt Cook National Park covers more than 70,000ha.

Look out for native flowers as there are over 750 varieties including the famous Mt Cook Lily, the largest buttercup in the world.

The Hermitage Hotel is the perfect place to stay and base your adventures and discover the region. Choose from premium hotel rooms or cozy chalets.

mackenzie/aoraki

LAKE TEKAPO

EARTH & SKY O B S E R VAT O R Y

TOURS

”Window to the Universe”

EARTH AND SKY OBSERVATORIES HOME OF THE AORAKI-MACKENZIE INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY RESERVE CAFÉ AND DAY TOURS

Drive or hike to the summit of Mt John. Enjoy your coffee with spectacular views at the Astro Cafe. Imagine viewing day-time stars, then visiting NZ’s largest telescope!

MT JOHN TWILIGHT AND NIGHT TOURS

Join us for our famous Observatory Tour. We provide transport, equipment and guidance. Navigate your way around the Southern Sky using powerful lasers, while telescopes unlock familiar planets through to rich star clusters.

BOOKING IS ADVISED For more details call 03 680 6960 or email: info@earthandsky co.nz www.earthandsky.co.nz PHOTO: Lake Tekapo, Vaughan Brookfield

Book online and use promo code ‘AUTUMN’ to receive 10% discount until May 31st 2016.

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mackenzie/aoraki

The Grand Traverse of Aoraki Mount Cook & glaciers with Air Safaris To appreciate the beauty and scale of the Mackenzie, there is nothing better than seeing it from the air. Air Safaris has been flying aircraft in and around the Mount Cook and Westland National Park since 1970.

Over this period of time, Air Safaris has grown from a single aircraft operation to operating New Zealand’s largest privately owned fleet of modern flight-seeing aircraft from bases in both Lake Tekapo and Franz Josef on the west coast.

The grand traverse is a magnificent flight encompassing over 200 kilometres of New Zealand’s most memorable and spectacular scenery.

With approximately 50 minutes flying time, the grand traverse reveals golden tussock lands and turquoise glacier lakes amongst New Zealand’s highest mountains and largest glaciers.

Every passenger has a window seat and each aircraft has wings above to ensure optimum viewing below.

Experience a spectacular AIR SAFARIS 50 minute “Grand Traverse” flightseeing tour of Aoraki Mount Cook and glaciers.

Lake Tekapo - Mount Cook/Mackenzie Region Covers over 200 km and highlights include: State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo PH 0800 806 880 Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman Tasman & Murchison glaciers - Franz Josef & Fox glaciers plus much more!!

Franz Josef - Westland Region Flights departing hourly from:

State Highway 6, Franz Josef PH 0800 723 274

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www.airsafaris.co.nz sales@airsafaris.co.nz

west coast

Time for total immersion in nature

BY CHRIS BIRT In a country so well endowed with natural attractions, mind-blowing scenery and picture postcard images at every turn, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s difficult to identify a location that can claim - unequivocally - that it is truly unique.

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west coast

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF WEST COAST TOURISM

Many locations around New Zealand today claim uniqueness. It’s a tag that’s easy to claim but is often very hard to justify.

Glacier Country, near the bottom end of the West Coast of the Southern Alps, can rightly claim such status. There are no parallels within New Zealand, and certainly few other locations in the world today can boast this array of attributions and attractions, certainly within such a compact area.

That’s being increasingly recognised by travellers from around the rest of New Zealand - and those who journey from afar to the shores of the land mass named by early Maori as Aotearoa, the Land of the Long White Cloud.

With a thirst for making a personal connection with Planet Earth, more people are opting for more time in Glacier Country, rather than seeing it as a stop-over en route to Wanaka and Queenstown to the south, or the Nelson region to the north. It’s a decision few ever regret.

The hearts of this special part of the West Coast are the glaciers themselves, Franz Josef and Fox. But there is so much more to Glacier Country than these two creeping rivers of ice, with lush rainforest, mirror-like lakes and gushing rivers all providing a perfect playground for those who take the time to sample what the area’s tourism and accommodation operators have to offer.

The glaciers have always provided interest for people. The early Maori travellers were left in awe at their size, majesty and power when they first cast eyes on them. European explorers shared similar feelings, followed by surveyors and geologists, then the gold seekers who stayed on when the elusive little nuggets ran dry.

More latterly, visitors began to journey to the area, driven by tales of the unrivalled power of nature in its most pristine form.

Guest rooms provided by local farmers in their homes, far off 74

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF WEST COAST TOURISM

the established blue ribbon tourism route, created the beginnings of the visitor industry in Glacier Country.

Eventually these humble lodgings were replaced by hotels as demand from travellers, and those called upon to guide them, increased. The warm and friendly atmosphere created more than a century ago remains. The hospitality of the Coasters - those who were born of this remote, rugged land and those who have settled since - is legendary.

The Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are among the most stunning natural formations of their kind remaining in the world today.

A myriad of glacier-based excursions are available, with an adventure suited to most fitness levels. Guided walks exist at both Fox and Franz Josef, leading visitors to an incredible world of ice.

west coast

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF WEST COAST TOURISM

Fly-in, fly-out heli-hikes combine the excitement of walking on either of the glaciers with the thrill of a flight over some of the most spectacular formations remaining on Earth. Standing on a huge wall of ice, or venturing into a cave with sheer glistening sides is an experience to behold, but seeing the vastness of these ancient relics of a long-lost era from the air is something that stays with most people all their lives.

Eco-walks up the valleys to explore the terminal faces of these two glaciers are something to be considered by those with a hankering for an experience that is a little less strenuous.

Around the West Coast’s glaciers, a veritable goldfield of activities exists. Avid adventures are well catered for - but so are those seeking more leisurely, passive pursuits.

Visitors can opt for either end of the scale, or a mix of both. Choice abounds in Glacier Country.

Quad biking and tandem sky diving also feature among the activities favoured by those to whom active adventure is an irresistible passion. Glacier Country offers the highest tandem skydive in the world - about 5000 metres, or 16,500 feet in aviation terms.

With the Southern Alps, the glaciers, rainforest and the rugged Tasman Sea providing a backdrop, it’s hard to imagine a better place to jump out of a plane than Fox Glacier.

But there’s a diverse range of wildlife experiences of offer too, the white heron sanctuary at Whataroa - home of the splendid kotuku so revered by Maori - and the kiwi breeding centre at Okarito are hot favourites among visitors.

Located just 30 kilometres north of Franz Josef, the kotuku sanctuary provides tours to the only nesting site for this magnificent dazzling white bird in this country. The nesting takes place deep within the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve is only accessible by boat and is surrounded by rainforest dominated by New Zealand’s largest native tree species, the kahikatea, or white pine. This is a special place and the history of the bird itself is readily shared by experienced guides well versed in its history and significance as a species.

Two of the world’s most endangered bird species also exist in Glacier Country, with the Rowi and Haast Tokoeka kiwis calling this region home. Both numbering less than 400, these two small kiwi species are the most precious birds in the country and there is only one place to see them - the West Coast Wildlife Centre near Franz Josef.

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west coast

2 UNIQUE ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN FRANZ JOSEF

Individual Studio Cottages & Holiday House.

Quiet central location next to the rainforest with snow-capped mountain views.

P. 03 752 0211 P. 0800 10 10 01 www.10cottages.co.nz

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF WEST COAST TOURISM

Closest Motel to the centre of Franz Josef Spacious Hotel & Motel rooms & family apartments. Quiet onsite Restaurant.

P. 03 752 0130 P. 0800 83 77 22 www.terracemotel.co.nz

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This must-see destination provides a unique interactive experience that brings together wildlife, nature and conservation under one roof. The centre’s hatching and incubation programme is responsible from bringing these little kiwi species back from the brink, with sponsorship of a chick helping to fund on-going support for this worthy effort.

Paddling on the mirror-image lakes, Mapouriki and Matheson, relaxing in rejuvenating thermal pools, or taking a leisurely walk into the forest that sweeps its way down from the Southern Alps, are the perfect activities for those seeking a complete break from the pressure-cooker lives that dominates life for many in the 21st century.

The beautiful wetlands, beaches, grasslands, lakes, mountains and forests of Westland Tai Poutini National Park and the northern part of the UNESCO World Heritage Area, Te Wahipounamu are a playground into which Kiwis, and international travellers, should venture.

Glacier Country is a drive of about three and a half hours from Wanaka, passing through the beech forests which flow right down to the edges of the Haast Pass, or a five and a half hour road trip from Christchurch.

Kiwirail’s TranzAlpine is another option for accessing the Glacier Country. Described as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, this excursion carries passengers from Christchurch to Greymouth where a range of rental vehicles are available for the road trip south. The coastal route down to Glacier Country is a feature of any West Coast visit and fits neatly alongside the hugely memorable TranzAlpine experience.

Glacier Country offers a range of accommodation, from backpacker hostels to high quality hotels, with plenty of options for dining in the cafes, restaurants and bars which provide the sort of hospitality for which the entire Coast has acquired an international reputation.

There’s a message to all travellers. To fully experience Glacier Country - in all its moods and through all four seasons - visitors need to immerse themselves in the landscape.

It’s only by making footprints in the snow high into the alps, wander leisurely along rainforest trails, delve deeply into the blue ice caves of the glaciers, travelling at speed up glacial rivers or marvelling at the reflections created in lakes of crystal clear waters that the magnificence of this natural world is really revealed.

The delights of this secret world, and the activities that are centred on it, can only be experienced by making Glacier Country a destination.

Basing oneself in the area is a decision that is rarely regretted. There’s just so much to see and do that stopping over for a few hours, or just one night, can provide regrets - that more time was not left to experience more of what is on offer.

The answer seems so simple. Plan to visit Glacier Country and stay for a few days, or better still, a week. The promise from those who host visitors is a constant - no two days will be the same and given all that’s on offer, it really is difficult to run out of exhilarating, adventurous, entertaining or enlightening things to do.

west coast

ION MENT T TIME Y AD A THIS KING AN O O OF BO E ROOM T T E PRIVA E A FRE V L I E A REC INENT T CON AKFAST BRE Immerse yourself in the spectacular view of mountains and bush scenery of New Zealand’s west coast. Rainforest Retreat offers a unique getaway with options suited to various budgets and needs of the world weary traveller.

Centrally located in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier township on the west coast of NZ’s South Island.

Nestled in six acres of native bush and surrounded by lush punga groves, Rainforest Retreat offers a wide range of accommodation – all built to embrace the natural environment.

Whatever the season, explore New Zealand’s glaciers while staying at Rainforest Retreat. It’s not just accommodation … it’s an experience!

46 Cron Street, Franz Josef, West Coast /

Flights departing hourly from: Franz Josef - Westland Region

State Highway 6, Franz Josef PH 0800 723 274

Lake Tekapo - Mount Cook/Mackenzie Region State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo PH 0800 806 880

Freecall 0800 873 346 /

Phone: +64 3 752 0220 /

www.rainforestretreat.co.nz

Experience a spectacular AIR SAFARIS 50 minute “Grand Traverse” flightseeing tour of Aoraki Mount Cook and glaciers.

Covers over 200 km and highlights include: Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman Tasman & Murchison glaciers - Franz Josef & Fox glaciers plus much more!!

www.airsafaris.co.nz sales@airsafaris.co.nz 77

FOX & FRANZ JOSEF GLACIERS

CREDIT: West Coast Tourism

Glacier Country Experience the twin (but not identical) glaciers, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef. Unique & majestic rivers of ice plunging down through rainforest almost to sea level - true wonders of nature.

The Westland Tai Poutini National Park is home to two of New Zealand’s awe inspiring natural wonders – Fox Glacier and Franz Josef are also two of the world’s most accessible glaciers. The glaciers are examples of the diverse locations and attractions the West Coast offers.

CREDIT: West Coast Tourism

H E R I TAG E PA R K  WEST COAST  NEW ZEALAND

Air Safaris offer scenic glacier flights from their base at Franz Josef.

Their Grand Traverse scenic flight from Franz Josef provides the best way to experience this glacial environment in its entirety.

The flight includes an incredible views of the mighty Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier and rugged Westland National Park before traversing Mount Cook and the main divide to explore the vast Mount Cook National Park.

Bigger and less crowded than Franz Josef, Fox Glacier is another major West Coast tourist attraction. The glacier terminates within a temperate rainforest and at less than 300 metres above sea level.

Activities include everything from easy guided or self-guided walks to scenic flights and heli-landings on the glacier.

Fox Glacier Guiding has a long guiding history in the area and this accumulated knowledge and experience means that they are able to provide safe, enjoyable and high quality trips.

THE MEANING BEHIND THEIR NAMES The Maori name for the Franz Josef Glacier is Ka Roimata o Hinehukatere (‘The tears of Hinehukatere‘). The legend of the Makawhio people (a sub tribe of the Nga Tahu) says that Hinehukatere was a fearless young woman who loved climbing in

S

tep back in time and discover a recreated gold rush village. Over 30 shops and buildings to explore plus Steam Train ride, Sluice demonstrations, Gold panning tutorials and old time photographs. Lots of family fun!

Onsite café and licenced bar, postal services and free wifi.

Rutherglen Road, Paroa (10km South of Greymouth).

Open 7 days 8.30am - 5.00pm.

Phone 03 762 6634 shantytown.co.nz

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the mountains. She persuaded her lover, Wawe to climb with her even though he was less experienced. Disaster struck when an avalanche swept Wawe from the peaks to his death. The Fox Glacier was his final resting place, or moeka. Hinehukatere was broken hearted and her many, many tears flowed down the mountain. The gods froze these tears in a river of ice and the Franz Josef glacier was formed as a reminder of her grief.

The choice of the glaciers European names is a little less romantic.

In 1865 Julius Von Haast decided to name the Franz Josef glacier after “His Imperial Majesty” Franz Josef I, Emperor of Austria and the local village later took its name from the glacier. He also named the Fox Glacier in honour of Sir William Fox, the New Zealand Premier. This was only a couple of a number of landmarks that Mr Haast did not actually ‘discover’ as a European explorer, yet, he took the liberty of naming!

wellington

All EqUIPmENt PROvIDED A RANGE OF tRIPS AvAIlAblE HElI HIkE OPtIONS The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand’s West Coast Glaciers. Join us and share the experience of a lifetime. We give you the opportunity to explore the most spectacular glacier environment available to the general public, offering a range of glacier hiking tours to suit all levels of fitness and ability.

FREEPHONE 0800 GUIDES www.franzjosefglacier.com A true NZ experience from…

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LAKE WANAKA

The splendour of Lake Wanaka this autumn Autumn it’s the season of colour and inspiration, the perfect combination of crisp, cool mornings, calm afternoons and golden evenings. As the heat of summer slowly fades, leaving in its wake, days that are perfect for hiking, biking, kayaking and exploring the great outdoors.

This is the season to discover Mt Aspiring National Park, home to some of the best day and half day walks in the country. Trails like Roy’s Peak, Rocky Mountain, and the Rob Roy Glacier Track, vary in degrees of difficulty and boast iconic views, globally recognised for their breath-taking beauty.

The Makarora Tourist Centre offers accommodation and adventure under Mt Shrimpton which borders on the Mt Aspiring World Heritage National Park. You will find them 65 kms north of Wanaka.

Getting back to nature has never been easier in this region of soaring mountains. For the keen hiker there are several outstanding, multi-day alpine treks into the wilderness, and plenty of operators to guide and get you there.

For those of the two wheeled persuasion Wanaka boasts 750km of bike tracks and trails, with everything from gentle lakeside cycling, flowing single track, through to New Zealand’s highest downhill heli-biking experience.

As fun as snow only dirtier the Cardrona Bike Park offers the perfect opportunity to explore the mountains in the off season, with the added luxury of lift accessed trails. Open until the Easter weekend the Cardrona Bike Park features a variety of lift accessed downhill and cross country mountain bike trails for all types of peddlers to enjoy.

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For the young ones, the Cardrona Bike Park has a designated kids’ park in the Base Area with small ride-on features to get them confident on two wheels.

Or experience Cardrona’s newest gravity-fuelled adventure – mountain carting. No prior experience is needed for this fun downhill activity, just a sense of adventure and a thirst for fun.

For those wanting a challenge Deep Canyoning Wanaka offers a fantastic day out. They offer a range of trips for those with no experience, to those who have good fitness and previous knowledge. For the more adventurous why not try a tandem skydive with Skydive Wanaka and freefall above some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery.

Lake Wanaka offers warm southern hospitality and incredible views wherever you look. And between a place to simply lie down and close your eyes for the night or relax in total indulgence, there's the ideal base for your time here.

Wanaka Heights Motel offers guests friendly, affordable, comfortable accommodation with amazing lake and mountain views. They are situated on a high rise overlooking Wanaka township, a 5-minute walk to the lake front, restaurants and bars.

The Wanaka Hotel also offers great value and only a minute’s walk to the Lake and town centre. Enjoy a relaxing drink on your deck while soaking up the lake and mountain views

LAKE WANAKA

CREDIT: Lake Wanaka Tourism

HANDMADE IN NEW ZEALAND

CREDIT: Lake Wanaka Tourism

Events are plentiful and diverse in autumn from traditional family fun at the Wanaka A&P Show, through to Challenge Wanaka, one of the world’s toughest long distance triathlons, Wanaka has you covered.

A highlight of this autumn’s event season is Warbirds over Wanaka, one of the world’s largest and most popular air shows where vintage and modern aircraft strut their stuff in the sky.

After all that activity a wine tour is great way to wind down and experience a taste of Central Otago. Autumn is one of the best times of the year to appreciate the turning of the leaves in vineyards such as Rippon, Maude, Atkins Folly, and Archangel.

Take a personalised wine tour with owner operators who are passionate about wine and food. Their comprehensive knowledge of the region, the wines and, most importantly, the people who make this one of the world’s greatest wine regions, mean their tours are imbued with passion and a deeply personal touch.

For everything you need to know visit lakewanaka.co.nz

World renowned art glass and glass jewellery by glass artists Ola & Marie Höglund.

Creators of New Zealand art glass since 1982.

1767 Luggate-Cromwell Rd, Central Otago Ph. 027 804 7454 52 Lansdowne Road, Richmond, Nelson Ph: 03 544 6500

www.hoglundartglass.com 81

lake WANAKA

Autumn Activities A great way to see the colours reflected in the lake is to take to the water or the skies and the weather is still warm enough to enjoy it.

WANAKA HEIGHTS

It's still great weather to bike and walk to your heart's content and really get to admire the autumn colours up close.

When the weather is a little chilly take time out to visit one of our Unique Attractions. Test your body and mind at one of these great attractions.

Grab some fresh fruit, bread and supplies from the Farmers Market or take time to sit down and relax at one of our great cafes and restaurants for some local produce including beer and wine.

Wanaka Heights offers guests friendly, affordable, comfortable accommodation with amazing lake and mountain views.

Situated on a high rise overlooking Wanaka township, our motel is a 5-minute walk to the lake front, restaurants, bars, cinema and retail shops.

Our accommodation has stunning alpine views to Lake Wanaka and the mountains, each with their own balcony or patio.

We have studio and family motel units each with kitchen facilities, ensuite bathrooms, wireless internet access & flatscreen SKY TVs. Continental breakfast available. Outdoor seating area with barbecue facilities plus off-street parking.

WANAKA HEIGHTS MOTEL Reservations toll free 0800194452 info@wanakaheightsmotel.co.nz www.wanakaheightsmotel.co.nz

STRA P YOURSELF TO A BEAU TIFU L STRA NGER...

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AND FREEFALL AT 200KPH ABOVE SOME OF NEW ZEALANDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MOST SPECTACULAR SCENERY!

BOOK ONLINE TO RECEIVE $30 OFF CAMERA WORK! Conditions apply*

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DE: sail&save

0800 786 877 skydivewanaka.com FREE TRANSPORT FROM QUEENSTOWN & WANAKA *Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

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WANAKA HOTEL, great value 3 star accommodation in the centre of Wanaka only one minute walk to the Lake and Town Centre.

Guest Laundry, Guest Kitchen, Wifi, Free Parking. Full Restaurant and Bar Facilities located onsite.

71 Ardmore Street, Wanaka

P: 0800 473 288

QUEENSTOWN

QUEENSTOWN

Autumn gold Queenstown delivers an unforgettable autumn experience. The outstanding golden and red hues dominate the hills around the region and contrast strikingly with the deep blue of our lakes and riversâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;giving you the chance to truly immerse yourself in the wonder of the season.

CREDIT: Jacks Point - Destination Queenstown

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QUEENSTOWN

Mount Nicholas

credit: destination Queenstown

Finz is the place to enjoy superb seafood and NZ’s finest meat produce in a warm and casual bistro style atmosphere, with excellent service and spectacular views. Enjoy casual relaxed waterfront dining whilst treating yourself to a seafood platter, a hearty steak or enjoy classic Kiwi fish and chips.

For reservations telephone +64 3 442 7405 or email: eat@finzdownunder.co.nz Open 7 days from 5 pm until late

Ground Floor, Steamer Wharf Beach Street, Queenstown P: +64 3 442 7405 E: eat@finzdownunder.co.nz

www.finzdownunder.co.nz 84

Of the four distinct seasons, autumn’s arrival in a blaze of reds and golds is the most dramatic, attracting visitors, artists and photographers from around the world. The fantastic line-up of regional events and great holiday deals make Queenstown an ideal place to visit in autumn and there are experiences to suit any holiday, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, luxury or a family break.

There is also a seemingly endless supply of world-renowned adventure activities ranging from skydiving, bungy jumping, jet boating and paragliding to aerobatic flights, horse trekking, rafting and 4WD tours.

For a more relaxed pace, tee up a round of golf, take a boat cruise or scenic flight, sample award-winning Central Otago wines and superb local cuisine, enjoy a treatment at a luxury spa or explore the town’s many shops, galleries, bars, cafes and restaurants.

Autumn temperatures are cooler at sunrise and sunset but the warm sunny days are ideal for exploring the region and enjoying the activities and attractions that make Queenstown famous.

Discover the backcountry on foot or bike or make the most of the huge network of trails around the region.

The Queenstown Trail is classed as a New Zealand Great Ride and the 110km network of trails in the Wakatipu basin wind between rivers, lakes and mountain ranges giving easy access to some iconic Queenstown vistas and experiences. Popular spots such as Queenstown Bay, Frankton, Lake Hayes, Arrowtown or Gibbston’s ‘valley of vines’ can all be accessed via the Queenstown Trail—and many of these spots offer especially wonderful displays of autumn colour.

More challenging biking options include road rides, heli-biking, a bike park and the Southern Hemisphere’s only gondola assisted mountain biking. Bike operators and rental providers offer a range of hire packages and guided tour options whether it’s for an hour or a multi-day trip.

Queenstown also offers some of the country’s best golfing experiences. The world-class, diverse golf courses are set amongst dramatic lake and alpine scenery and are a must-do for keen golfers. Spend a leisurely morning or afternoon taking in a round – there are six options, all within 25 minutes of the town centre, ranging from immaculately groomed 18 hole championship courses to a family friendly 9-hole course and driving range.

New Zealand’s premier golf event, the 2015 BMW ISPS Handa NZ Open tournament is

QUEENSTOWN

also held in Queenstown from 10 – 13 March. The tier one event on the PGA Tours of Australasia has a unique Pro-Am format that brings together a prestigious blend of Professional and Amateur golfers and is held across two spectacular golf courses - The Hills and Millbrook Resort.

Queenstown is fast becoming renowned as one of NZ’s leading wine and food destinations and early autumn is a great time to come and experience the buzz as more than 6,000 tonnes of grapes are harvested from Central Otago’s 200 vineyards. If you’re a food and wine lover you can sample the ‘best of the best’ at the Skycity Gibbston Wine and Food Festival (21 March) - a harvest celebration showcasing the region’s finest wines, wine celebrities, local produce and talented chefs. For further taste testing, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the region’s many fine winery restaurants or spend the afternoon exploring vineyards and cellar doors on a wine tour.

Local chefs are passionate about using local ingredients and cooler temperatures bring a change in menus to reflect the season’s fresh produce. There are more than 150 innovative and award-winning restaurants and eateries to cater for any occasion from fine dining to fun dining.

In downtown Queenstown there’s stylish bistro food, celebrity chef restaurants, traditional pub meals, designer burgers and a variety of ethnic cuisine, while buffet dining above the gondola provides magnificent views of the region. Daytime al fresco dining is the ideal way to soak up the autumn sunshine and scenery while colder evenings are perfect for sipping a glass of award-winning local Pinot Noir beside a fire.

A trip to Queenstown isn’t complete without a visit to Arrowtown, the historic gold mining village on the banks of the Arrow River. Arrowtown is celebrated for its famous autumn hues when the trees on the surrounding hills turn red and gold.

The Arrowtown Autumn Festival (21-25 April) provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy the vibrant colours and relaxed atmosphere. The five-day festival celebrates the old goldmining town’s heritage with gold panning, a market day and street parade, the Art2Wear event, guided historical walks, a vintage car rally and live music and theatre.

Make time to explore the quaint tree-lined streets, old miners’ cottages, restored Chinese Village and Lakes District Museum as well as the award-winning restaurants and cafes, gourmet food and wine providores and diverse retail stores and galleries.

Autumn is also a good time to enjoy the region’s walking trails. Scenic walks from downtown Queenstown range from a short stroll around the beautiful lakeside gardens to tackling Queenstown Hill for magnificent 360 degree vistas. Further afield, Glenorchy’s epic Lord of the Rings scenery is a must-see and leads on to some of New Zealand’s Great Walks.

While visiting the region you’ll be spoilt for choice for places to stay – there’s everything from character backpacker hostels to some of the world’s finest luxury lodges, most within walking distance of town.

Queenstown is an easily accessible destination with great air connections and some of New Zealand’s most scenic drives delivering visitors to this iconic destination.

BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY Enquire today about our family offer.

BOOK NOW

Phone: 0800 802 804 www.shotoverjet.com

For more inspiration and great autumn deals visit www.queenstownnz.nz.

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QUEENSTOWN

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN 5-STAR LUXURY AT POUNAMU APARTMENTS Premier 5-star accommodation situated with an easy 10 minute walk from downtown Queenstown and everything you need for a memorable stay.

• Relax in your modern, comfortable room and take advantage of our FREE WiFi, LCD TVs with satellite channels and extensive DVD library.

• Book an action packed activity with our friendly Reservations Team.

• Special offers available now!

• Enjoy an uplifting soak in our exquisite hot tub overlooking The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu.

For unforgettable lifetime memories set your own pace at Pounamu Apartments and experience the best Queenstown has on offer.

110 Frankton Road, Queenstown p. 03 4424 868 f. 03 4424 869 NZ Free Call. 0800 476 862 e. enquiries@pounamuapartments.co.nz

www.pounamuapartments.co.nz

Queenstown’s most memorable dining experience A pioneering landmark from the 1860s, Gantleys is a charming stone building set on two acres of landscaped gardens with stunning mountain scenery.

Gantleys offers contemporary New Zealand cuisine using fresh, regional produce and has New Zealand’s most Awarded Wine list. Gantleys is certainly worth a visit. Just 10 minutes from Queenstown.

Complimentary transport from central Queenstown by arrangement.

“ Dining at Gantleys was one of the highlights of my trip to Queenstown. Along with the wonderful service, stunning gardens and the gorgeous wines (and there were certainly plenty to choose from), the food was second to none. Piping hot, cooked to perfection and cutting through my steak, it may as well have been butter. If you’re heading to the region, I encourage you to pop into this little gem of Queenstown – you won’t be disappointed and you’ll most likely find it’ll be your highlight too.”

Bettina Maniatis, Editor, Onboard Magazine

172 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown

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03 442 8999

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www.gantleys.co.nz

QUEENSTOWN

What’s on The BMW ISPS Handa New Zealand Open / 10-13 March Held at two spectacular golf courses - The Hills and Millbrook Resort the New Zealand Open incorporates a unique Pro-Am format that brings together a prestigious blend of professional and amateur golfers. The New Zealand Open is the country’s premier golf event, as well as a tier one event on the PGA Tour of Australasia. www.nzopen.co.nz

Queenstown Bike Festival / 26 March – 3 April Grab your bike and helmet and head to Queenstown for the Queenstown Bike Festival. It’s an exciting 10-day event for all ages and abilities and it gives you the chance to check out Queenstown’s worldclass cycle tracks, trails, roads and spectacular lake and alpine scenery.

Whether you’re a biking novice, recreational cyclist or serious biker there’s plenty of action. Events range from the spectacular Teva Slopestyle, Mega Avalanche and Dirtmasters Downhill to the Tour de Wakatipu, kids’ mini cross, Coffee to Grape wine trail ride, and bike movies and parties. www.queenstownbikefestival.co.nz Skycity Gibbston Wine and Food Festival / 19 March Food and wine lovers can sample the ‘best of the best’ at the annual Gibbston Wine and Food Festival, a harvest celebration which showcases the famous winemaking region’s finest wines, wine celebrities, local produce and talented chefs. Learn how wine and food can enhance each other at master classes run by industry leaders, try grape stomping, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning wine, food and line up of entertainment on offer. This year’s event will be hosted at the Queenstown Gardens. www.gibbstonwineandfood.co.nz Arrowtown Autumn Festival / 21-25 April The Arrowtown Autumn Festival provides a superb reason to get out and enjoy the slowing pace of autumn and the magnificent colours of the season. The region focuses on its gold mining history and celebrates its heritage in the streets of Arrowtown with a street parade and a programme of community-based events. www. arrowtownautumnfestival.org.nz

Discover the heart of New Zealand An awe inspiring journey into the Te Wai Pounamu World Heritage Area.

BOOK NOW! 0800 327853 www.dartriver.co.nz

To view a full list of Queenstown’s events please click on the ‘Local Events’ tab on www.queenstownNZ.co.nz.

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FIORDLAND

Fabulous Fiordland

By JO MAY

Fiordland - one of the southern hemisphere’s great wilderness regions and was awarded World Heritage status in 1986 for its stunning natural features, exceptional beauty and role in demonstrating the earth’s evolutionary history. Fiordland National Park overflows with verdant native forests, ancient glaciers, thundering waterfalls and rare wildlife. Fiordland is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular places of beauty!

Te Anau - the small picturesque town on the shores of Lake Te Anau - is the gateway to the southern wilderness area of Fiordland National Park, Milford and Doubtful Sounds, and departure point for many walking trails. Fiordland National Park is New Zealand largest conservation area. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and located on the edge of the largest lake in the South Island, Te Anau is the perfect base for exploring Fiordland.

Of the 14 fiords in the Fiordland region, Milford Sound is the only one accessible by road. From the head of the fiord, regular cruises take visitors past majestic Mitre Peak and 16km out to the open sea.

Doubtful Sound - three times longer and 10 times larger than Milford Sound - is Fiordland’s second largest fiord. Accessible by boat and plane, this remote wilderness area is renowned for its wildlife and quiet arresting beauty.

Heritage Māori, the first people to discover the beauty of Fiordland, have many stories about the formation and naming of this remote wilderness.

According to one Māori legend, demi-god Tu-te-raki-whanoa used Te Hamo (his adze) to carve the fiords from rock. Starting in the far south, Tu-te-raki-whanoa created a rough coastline and many islands, gradually perfecting his technique along the way. Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) was his greatest achievement. When underworld goddess Hine-nui-te-po saw the fiord's beauty, she feared that visitors would never leave so released sandflies to chase them away.

Early Māori visited Fiordland on hunting trips, and for tangiwai - a translucent greenstone / New Zealand jade found at Anita Bay and at 88

the mouth of Milford Sound.

Captain James Cook and his crew, who spent five weeks anchored in Dusky Sound in 1773, were the first Europeans to visit Fiordland.

Cook’s maps and descriptions of the area attracted sealers and whalers and, from the mid-19th century, surveyors, explorers and prospectors began exploring Fiordland’s interior.

Adventure / Outdoors Three of New Zealand’s nine ‘Great Walks’ are in Fiordland. The Kepler, Routeburn and Milford tracks are regarded as some of the world’s best walks. For more on these ‘Great Walks’ see our feature on pages 16-18 of this issue.

Nature and Wildlife Fiordland is a haven for native New Zealand birds, such as tui, kea, kaka, native pigeon, bellbird, tomtit and grey warbler, and the endangered takahe.

The flightless alpine takahe was thought to be extinct until the 1950s when a small population was rediscovered in Fiordland's Murchison and Stuart mountains. Since then, a breeding programme has helped increase the population while DOC continues to carefully monitor the only wild population of about 160 takahe.

Marine life thrives in the fiords, home to bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, Fiordland crested and little blue penguins, and visiting whales. Scenic cruises and kayak tours explore the fiords and wildlife in its natural habitat.

Milford Sound’s high annual rainfall and distinctive narrow shape creates a fresh water layer on top of the seawater, allowing deep-water dwelling species to exist at a much shallower depth. Milford Sound Underwater Observatory and guided dive tours give visitors a glimpse of rare species such as the red and black corals.

New Zealand tour company Real Journeys offer several tours exploring this remote part of New Zealand. Check out their bright lights tour of Fiordland National Park on the following page! www.fiordland.org.nz

FIORDLAND

Savour the Unique Location Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas, an easy two hours’ drive from Queenstown and Milford Sound, is the perfect accommodation choice for your Fiordland getaway.

Sitting at a prime lakefront location, overlooking picturesque Lake Te Anau, Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas is a short stroll from shops, restaurants and the many activities available in Te Anau and Fiordland.

Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas boasts 112 rooms and a variety of packages and options for the discerning traveller.

Book a Garden or Lakeview hotel room, a spacious one or two bedroom villa or pamper yourself in a deluxe Lakeview or Villa suite. Whether it’s a brief stopover to Milford Sound, a family holiday or a romantic getaway, you will find an accommodation option to suit your needs.

Complimentary, unlimited wireless internet is extended to all guests during their stay.

Spend some time in the outdoor heated swimming pool or book a private session in the spa and sauna, complimentary for all guests during their stay. Select a treatment at the on-site massage clinic, offering a range of relaxation or sport massages.

Pamper yourself or sooth your aches after one of the great New Zealand walks.

Distinction Te Anau boasts a wonderful modern restaurant and bar overlooking Lake Te Anau. Enjoy a drink, cocktail or sumptuous meal with awe inspiring views of New Zealand’s 2nd largest lake and stunning alpine mountains.

Catering for conference and weddings up to 140 guests, this is a perfect location to tie the knot. Exchange your vows in a waterfront glass wedding chapel. Imagine saying I do while gazing over stunning Lake Te Anau, with the mountains and rainforest as your backdrop. Select from a range of package options to celebrate your special day in one of our many function rooms. An on-site Wedding Specialist ensures you enjoy a hasslefree, unforgettable and luxurious four-star wedding experience to remember.

Visit distinctionhotelteanau.co.nz

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fiordland

Check out the bright lights of Fiordland National Park!

Experience a mysterious underground world of rushing water before drifting in silent darkness beneath the luminous shimmer of hundreds of glowworms.

Your trip to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves begins with a cruise to the western shores of Lake Te Anau on one of our purpose-built scenic cruise vessels.

A distinctively quality experience in the heart of Fiordland. On the shore of Lake Te Anau, 112 rooms with spectacular lake and mountain views or a garden setting.

Experience fine cuisine in our renowned MacKinnon Room Restaurant, sunsets in The Explorer Bar and Lakefront Terrace and relax in our spa and sauna complex

ticket erry h f r o in OFF t e r tra$ u o y 20 t n Presend receiveily rate. a a d

64 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau, Ph: 0800 223 687 reservations@distinctionteanau.co.nz www.distinctionteanau.co.nz

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At the entry to the caves at Cavern House, view the informative displays and learn about this geological wonder before you join your guide underground. On the tour of the caves, our friendly guides will point out the highlights and share their knowledge of the caves and its history.

This underground world is astonishingly beautiful. By geological standards the caves are very young (12,000 years) and are still being carved out by the force of the river that flows through them. The result is a twisting network of limestone passages filled with sculpted rock, whirlpools and a roaring underground waterfall.

Deep inside the caves, beyond the roar of the water, you will be taken by small boat into a silent hidden grotto inhabited by thousands of glowworms, unique to New Zealand. In the subterranean darkness, they produce a glittering display that is nothing short of extraordinary.

Your guided tour also includes a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau as well as an optional guided forest experience where you walk under the forest canopy and gain an insight into the unique flora that grows in Fiordland National Park.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Experience Several daily departures, year round. For more info or to book contact Real Journeys P: 0800 65 65 01 www.realjourneys.co.nz

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KI W I R AI L SCE NI C U PDATES

Handy travel apps for your New Zealand tour 1

In the past we have invested in travel books, maps and guides to plan out and navigate a holiday. Now, the smartphone in your pocket offers a high-tech alternative, putting a wealth of information right at your fingertips.

The trick is to access that data when you need it most - and that’s where some handy travel apps come to the rescue.

Here’s our pick of the most helpful apps for touring New Zealand.

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Essential New Zealand App A comprehensive travel guide from Tourism New Zealand, this app gives you access to up-to-date information about hundreds of NZ travel experiences. You can check out mustdo experiences, and save your favourites straight to the app.

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Metservice Weather

Viber

Towns and cities, rural, marine, rain radars and traffic cams – all the forecasts you need from New Zealand’s National Meteorological Service.

A free way to connect with your loved ones back home, Viber uses Wifi or 3G to text, call and send photos or videos worldwide to other Viber users.

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6

Navfree GPS

TRAVEL APP

Voice-guided directions to your destination, without an expensive in-car satellite system.

Maps are stored on your device so routes remain clearly marked even if coverage is lost.

Interislander Travel guide app is sponsored

by Tourism Radio and is packed with over 800 interesting local and nationwide facets.

It holds information about your location and places of interest as you approach your destination throughout New Zealand. The guide also highlights places to stay and eat, as well as places of cultural and historical significance.

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AirBnB A new phenomenon in booking accommodation – AirBnB connects travellers to those with ‘space to spare’. Rent a room, apartment, beach house or even a luxury tipi.

Download these apps from the Apple or Android app stores. Note some may have a small price tag, and require newer operating systems for compatibility – be sure to check the requirements before you download!

KIW KIWIRIRAIL AILS SCEN CENICICUUPDATE PDAT ES S

A MEMORABLE GIFT::

Gift vouchers

$1399

Kiwirail Scenic Journey’s gift voucher.

The gift they’ll remember for years to come.

If you‘re looking for a special and memorable gift for Christmas, a KiwiRail Scenic Journey gift voucher is the perfect solution. You can choose a specific journey, or let them decide where they want to go.

GIFT A JOURNEY Choose one of the spectacular scenic journeys for a meaningful gift. Just select your service, then the start and finish locations.

GIFT A VOUCHER If you‘d rather let them choose, you can give a voucher with a value of your choice.

Vouchers can be used on any KiwiRail Scenic Journey long distance service. Gift Vouchers are valid for 12 months, and your recipient can change the date of their travel as often as they need to within that period, so you know they’ll be able to use it when it suits them best. Full terms and conditions can be found on the KiwiRail Scenic Journeys website at www.kiwirailscenic.co.nz.

HOW WILL I RECEIVE IT? We can email your gift to you, or directly to the recipient. The email has your link to a personalised online gift voucher which, if you prefer, can be printed out to give in person.

Once they have the gift voucher, they can simply book their trip online or by phone at their leisure.

kids’ activity packs Our exciting new kids’ activity packs are now available! The packs are fun and educational, and are recommended for children aged between three and 14 years of age.

Not only will they keep the family entertained during the journey, thanks to the sturdy zip-up case they also make a perfect takehome memento of your travel with KiwiRail Scenic.

The packs include:

-- Playing cards -- Colouring-in activities and pencils -- An activity book including puzzles and quizzes -- Origami -- Stickers -- Sturdy zip-up case Activity packs are available to purchase from the café and are subject to availability, please enquire with your on-board crew.

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K IWI R AI L SCE NI C U PDATES

HISTORY OF OUR LAND Despite being on one of the last major land masses to be settled by humans, Aotearoa - New Zealand is rich with stories and history of our land, people and culture.

Our islands have developed a distinct biodiversity and boast a variety of geographical and geological features, largely due to our positioning over the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates. Here’s a taste of what there is to learn.

(For more interesting facts and stories, tune into the audio commentary throughout the journey.)

NORTH ISLAND Te Ika-a-Maui

Mt Tongariro Mt Pihanga Mt Ngauruhoe Mt Ruapehu Mt Taranaki

NELSON

NELSON LAKES NATIONAL PARK

FAULT ALPINE

SOUTH ISLAND MILFORD SOUND

Te Waipounamu

OTAGO

SOUTHERN ALPS OF NEW ZEALAND MAORI MYTHOLOGY GEOLOGY The mountain ranges that form the backbone of New Zealand are made of ancient greywacke, a sedimentary rock that was laid down 250 to 300 million years ago in the Permian era.

The mountains were formed by pressure over millions of years, which has gradually forced them up. They are still rising today. The faulting and folding that accompanies this uplift, along with the constant exposure to water, causes the rock to fracture and erode. The boulders in the South Island rivers are almost entirely greywacke and originate in the mountains.

Much of the sand on the beaches is made up of tiny fragments of greywacke which is why most New Zealand beaches are grey.

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According to Ma ¯ori mythology, Taranaki once lived in the central North Island with the other mountain gods; Tongariro, Ruapehu and Nga ¯ruawa ¯hia. Each of the mountains were in love with the neighbouring Pihanga, with her cloak of deep-green bush. Taranaki made advances to Pihanga , which jealous Tongariro did not like. A great battle consequently broke out between the two. The mountains belched their anger and darkness clouded the sky.

Tongariro eventually won and Taranaki fled westwards gouging out the Whanganui River in his retreat. When Taranaki conceals himself with rain clouds he is said to be crying for his lost love. According to some, one day Taranaki will return to Pihanga and it is unwise to live on the path between the two.

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The Southern Alps stretch for 500 kilometres, from Nelson Lakes National Park in the northeast to near the entrance of Milford Sound in the south-west. They lie along a plate boundary with the massive tectonic pressures causing their continuing uplift. They are among the fastestrising mountains in the world with the land east of the Alpine Fault rising at a rate of one to two metres per century. The Alpine Fault was discovered in 1941 by a New Zealand geologist called Harold Wellman. In his travels he noted that the rocks on opposite sides of the fault were the same in Otago as they were in Nelson 480 kilometres away. This led him to speculate that not only was the land being forced upwards, it was also moving sideways. This revolutionary theory, much debated at the time, is now widely accepted and has played a major part in the global scientific community’s understanding of plate tectonics.

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KIW IR AIL S CEN IC U PDAT E S

motive power A variety of different locomotives will be the driving force for your Scenic journey, depending on a number of factors including size of the train and locomotive availability.

DC LOCOMOTIVE

DIESEL ELECTRIC MAINLINE PASSENGER & FREIGHT LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

71

ENGINE TYPE

EMD 12/645E

POWER OUTPUT

1500HP traction / 1650HP gross

GEAR RATIO

63.14

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

1022mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

145kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

100kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

82 tonnes

DFT LOCOMOTIVE

DIESEL ELECTRIC MAINLINE PASSENGER & FREIGHT LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

30

ENGINE TYPE

GM 12/645E3C

POWER OUTPUT

2250HP traction / 2450HP gross

GEAR RATIO

57.16

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

940mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

270kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

113kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

87.6 tonnes

DX LOCOMOTIVE

DIESEL ELECTRIC MAINLINE PASSENGER & FREIGHT LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

46

ENGINE TYPE

GE 7FDL12

POWER OUTPUT

3150HP traction / 3300HP gross

GEAR RATIO

93.18

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

940mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

370kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

106kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

99.9 tonnes

EF LOCOMOTIVE

MAINLINE ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

17

POWER OUTPUT

3MW

GEAR RATIO

74.17

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

1100 - 1000mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

300kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

110kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

108 tonnes

KI W I R AI L SCE NI C UP DATES

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LET’S GET SOCIAL

POWERING UP There’s nothing worse than a flat camera or smartphone battery when you’re traveling or on holiday, so we’ve provided power outlets that are accessible from every seat. So plug in, power up and don’t let a flat battery get in the way of your Kodak moments! Note for international visitors: New Zealand’s electricity supply runs at 230/240 volts, and we use angled two or three pin plugs.

Our hub for all things social.

Tag your train travel pics and we could share it on our social sites (with credit given to you, of course!). Inside the train, from the viewing deck, or on the station platform – capture and share the best moments of your journey, and show the rest of the world the true beauty of train travel and scenic New Zealand!

www.kiwirailscenic-social.co.nz

Photo: Dan Powell @dnpwl

Get snapping, tagging, and don’t forget to follow us!

#nzby #tranzalpine #coastalpacific #northernexplorer

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

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Facebook.com/kiwirailscenic

twitter.com/kiwirailscenic

YOU TUBE

INSTAGRAM

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Youtube.com/kiwirailscenic

Instagram.com/kiwirailscenic

KIW IR AIL S CEN IC U PDAT E S

SHOOT, SHARE AND WIN! Share your images to either Instagram, Twitter, or Flickr and hashtag them #NZbyTrain. You can also upload directly to our shoot, share and win! Competition at www.kiwirailscenic-social.co.nz. Winners will be contacted directly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so get sharing!

Terms & Conditions

*

+ KiwiRail Scenic may determine, at itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sole discretion, whether it will use any contributions submitted to it. + Prizes offered for contributions are non-transferrable or redeemable for cash.

Full terms and conditions are outlined on travel vouchers.

train

+ By contributing content the contributor(s) agree to allow KiwiRail Scenic to share the content on social channels without notice to the contributor(s).

Photo: Liz Gilber @liz_gilbert

_ WHERE CAN I CONNECT? Our trains travel through some very remote parts of the country, and pass through a number of tunnels along the way. Unfortunately this means internet connectivity is patchy and sometimes not available for periods of time, however most stations are located in areas with coverage.

So when you find the train slowing down as you approach a station, take the opportunity to upload and share your train snaps!

Photo: Samuel Budi Kusuma @smlbdksm

imagine yourself here and your cares a million miles away GLACIER HOT POOLS

The Glacier Hot Pools are six hours drive from Christchurch.

Located at Franz Josef Glacier, with 3 invitingly warm public pools, 3 secluded private pools, and onsite massage all nestled amidst the rugged West Coast rainforest.

Franz Josef Glacier | West Coast | Freephone: 0800 044 044 | www.glacierhotpools.co.nz A true NZ experience fromâ&#x20AC;Ś