explore - inspiration for smart travellers

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17 April 2021

INSPIRATION FOR TODAY’S SMART TRAVELLER

ART ATTACK

SA’s wineries boast more than just a fine drop.

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explore

Saturday 17 April 2021

WELCOME BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY HERE OR MISS OUT

I

t’s a case of one step forward and two steps back for Australia’s keen travellers. Just as New Zealand beckoned and even Singapore seemed an attainable destination, the faltering vaccine rollout has meant most international travel now won’t take place until next year.

Even the bullish boss of Qantas, Alan Joyce, is said to be reconsidering his prediction that international flights might resume in October. A report released by Deloitte Access Economics suggested international travel will not return to normal for several years.

The result is that most local destinations have been booked out by Australians with foresight, particularly during landmark holiday periods. So our advice for those still pondering important breaks towards the end of the year: book an Australian trip now.

To help, our writers this week have visited the McLaren Vale, home to South Australia’s wonderful shiraz region; Robertson, the town where Babe was filmed; and New Zealand – the only overseas destination which will welcome Aussies this month.

And don’t worry – there is one overseas holiday you can be sure of: our brilliant competition to win a Viking river cruise from Moscow to St Petersburg worth $22,990. Enter at our website, exploretravel.com.au.

PETER LYNCH, Editor

Tim Philips is a celebrated Australian mixologist and bartender whose talents have taken him around the world, and who now co-owns acclaimed Sydney venues Bulletin Place and Dead Ringer. Tim won World Class Bartender of the Year in Rio de Janeiro in 2012, and with World Class coming to Sydney this year (April 28 to May 2), we chat to him about his Sydney recommendations.

When it comes to exploring the city, Tim thinks the best way to soak up Sydney is on foot. He lists his two favourite Sydney restaurants as Newtown gem Continental Deli and Momofuku Seiobo, a prized attraction of The Star Sydney, and for his top tucked away spot, Tim nominates Parsley Bay in Vaucluse, which is “perfect for a picnic or kid’s birthday.”

“We’re lucky to live in Sydney with one of the most vibrant bar scenes in the world and so many talented staff members,” he says of the lifting of the lockout laws. “This is a great opportunity to get back out there and support not only the famous bars but also the smaller bars that give Sydney the tension a city needs to be three dimensional.”

MY AUSTRALIA TIM PHILIPS

Australian Community Media Head of Content: Joanne Crawford Manager – Travel & Equity Partnerships: Suzy Parker, 0414 914 426, suzy.parker@austcommunitymedia.com.au

Editor: Peter Lynch Content Editor: Bernadette Chua Art Director: Catherine Martin Sub-editor: Hannah Warren Contact us: 02 9356 8888 explore@bigsplashmedia.com.au Cover: Chester Osborn of d’Arenberg.

Explore is produced by Big Splash Media on behalf of Australian Community Media. All rights reserved. Views expressed are the authors and may not be those of the publishers. Information and prices can change, so always consult your travel agent or provider.

explore@ bigsplashmedia. com.au ExploreTravelAU exploretravel_au

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ENTER AT exploretravel.com.au/viking Terms and conditions apply; For full terms and conditions see the competition entry form; Entries close at 11.59pm AEST on Saturday, 8th May 2021. Entry is open to residents of Australia aged 18 years or older, excluding employees of Rural Press Pty Ltd (T/A Australian Community Media (ACM)) publications, the competition/event employees and their immediate family, travel agents involved with and agencies associated with this promotion. The winner will be drawn by computerised random selection on 10/05/2021 at The Senior, 16A Mildon Road Tuggerah 2250, by a representative of ACM. Winners will be notified by email and phone on the same day with instructions on how to claim their prize. Prize is a Viking “Waterways of the Tsars” Cruise for two people, leaving Moscow on 15 September 2022 travelling to St Petersburg for 13 days and 12 nights twin share, valued at $22,990. There is one prize to be won. The total prize value is a maximum of $22,990. Authorised under NSW Authority Number TP/00287, ACT Permit Number ACT TP 21/00439 and SA Licence Number T21/408. The promoter is Rural Press Pty Ltd ABN 47 000 010 382 of 159 Bells Line of Rd, North Richmond, NSW, 2754.

explore CONCIERGE

Saturday 17 April 2021

News / Deals / Tips

DEALS OF THE WEEK

Sculpt the perfect weekend away

GLAMP IN THE BAROSSA VALLEY

Sculpture at Scenic World, a Blue Mountains celebration of art and nature, is back after a two-year break. This wonderful meeting of art and nature runs from 1 April to 2 May. A ticket to Scenic World gives you entry to the exhibition, including access to all the scenic world rides. This includes Scenic Rail, the world’s steepest passenger railway and Scenic Skyway cable car ride, both of which offer unbelievable views.

The actual sculpture exhibition is a series of carefully curated art installations in the bush. Feel connected to both nature and art as you stand among the high-standing trees. The Blue Mountains are a treat to visit at any time, so this exhibition is the perfect chance to take the leap and explore the exhibition and the wider area.

squeeze in a ski holiday. So what if you could fit an entire Thredbo holiday not only into one day, but a day that is defined by luxury? For $2,999 per person, you can leave Sydney early in the morning, enjoy a day on the slopes and be on a flight home by the afternoon. You’ll fly 35 minutes on a luxury jet as you enjoy breakfast, be transported to Thredbo by a private driver and head straight to the slopes with your lift tickets already arranged. Enjoy après ski and unwind on your flight home. You can have your feet in the snow by 9am and be home for dinner.

Live. Laugh. Love. Or at least laugh

South Australia and Victoria lead eco-travel efforts

Explore more: scenicworld.com.au

It’s an extremely tough time to be an entertainer and the past year has been one of very few laughs. So it seems like a mutually beneficial arrangement to catch Sydney Comedy Festival shows. Check if any of your favourites are playing shows or just scroll the website and see what appeals. You could check out Netflix star Daniel Sloss’s show Hubris, watch The Bear Pack fully improvise a show based on audience prompts or see Shapelle, Shapelle! – The Musical!, a hilarious show about media sensationalism told through the life of Shapelle Corby. An easy option is to go to a Gala or Showcase and check out the best of the fest. The festival runs from 19 April to 16 May. Explore more: sydneycomedyfest.com. au

Day trip to the snow in luxury

Coordinating schedules, getting time off work and competing with the school holiday rush can make it difficult to

The Senior Newspaper and Travelrite International invite you to join them on the 2021

19 to 31 October 2021

Visiting Bathurst, Cowra, Parkes, Orange, Dubbo, Tamworth, Armidale and Coffs Harbour

Stay in a newly constructed two-person Deluxe Safari Tent, gaze over vineyards and drift off to sleep among the gum trees.

No kids are allowed here so its best for a romantic getaway and there’s a firepit, heated pool and spa, and private viewing decks to help facilitate your romance in this wine-lovers paradise.

Price: $289pp for four nights Visit: flightcentre.com.au

The Blue Mountains’ Scenic Skyway cable car.

STOP, REVIVE, SURVIVE ON THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD

At the halfway point of both the Great Ocean Road and Great Ocean Walk sits The Boomerangs at Johanna, a luxury wilderness escape. The location of the accommodation is completely isolated in gorgeous nature, near beaches, waterfalls and the famous 12 Apostles rock formation.

Enjoy breakfast, on-site yoga and a shuttle service to the Great Ocean Walk.

Price: $715pp for three nights Visit: travelassociates.com

POCKET GUIDE

VANCOUVER CANADA

Explore more: luxuryescapes.com

If you’re interested in sustainable travel, head to South Australia and Victoria – both states have been investing into eco-travel initiatives, as well as sustainability in general. But don’t sacrifice luxury for sustainability. Exceptional Kangaroo Island is an ecotourism certified tour operator, ready to show off the sensational wildlife of Kangaroo Island. Another great operator is Echidna Walkabout, which can take you on adventures such as a threeday tour of Great Ocean Road wildlife, or a four-day wild koala research experience in Victoria’s Gippsland region. There are also incredible eco-stays available across the two states. From $270 a night you can stay in Pink Lake Tiny House, an architectural gem opposite pink Lake Bumbunga in South Australia. In Victoria, stay in Clifftop at Hepburn in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, rated Australia’s number-one romantic getaway in 2017.

Explore more: southaustralia.com & visitvictoria.com

DO THE BUBBLE IN LUXURY

With New Zealand open for travel again very soon, make up for lost time by living it up while you’re there. The five-star Hotel Fitzroy is ready to spoil you with a continental inroom breakfast and complimentary local wine. Pay an extra $50 for more space and extra views. A 1pm check in time and midday check out will leave you plenty of time to explore Auckland and its surrounds.

Price: $899 for 3 nights, $1679 with flights Visit: luxuryescapes.com

What’s good about it? This bustling seaport in British Columbia, is among Canada’s densest, most ethnically diverse cities. It’s surrounded by mountains, and also has thriving art, theatre and music scenes. The snow-capped mountains peeking between downtown’s skyscrapers are less than 30 minutes away by car.

Best for: Because of its proximity to both mountains and ocean, Vancouver offers every kind of outdoor sport, from skiing in winter to kayaking in summer. But Vancouver is also Canada’s dining capital, serving up everything from excellent Asian to fresh-caught seafood, all washed down with local craft beer. Arts and culture are big here; expect festivals and events, live music, waterfront theatre, galleries and a thriving public art movement.

FIVE-STAR GOLD COAST

Best time to visit: July and August have the best weather; for good prices, try April to June and September to November.

Stay at The Star Grand Gold Coast and enjoy daily breakfast and welcome cocktail credit for two, and $50 restaurant credit to spend at onsite venues Kiyomi, Cucina Vivo and Garden Kitchen & Bar. Kick back poolside, enjoy fine dining, indulge at the spa, visit the casino or head out to the beaches and theme parks nearby.

Price: Two nights from $469, with return flights for two from $675.

Visit: luxuryescapes.com

Getting there: Visit Vancouver with the iconic 23-day North Pacific Passage, from Tokyo to Vancouver or vice versa.

ALL DEALS CORRECT AT PRESS TIME

Highlights:

Inclusions:

• Enjoy a picturesque train journey via the spectacular Blue Mountains passing through Katoomba, Mount Victoria and Lithgow • Visit the gorgeous Mayfield Garden, featuring a spectacular water garden • Wander through the King’s Castle Elvis Exhibit at Parkes • See the iconic CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope, star of the movie ‘The Dish’.

• Relax at boutique wineries in the Orange region • See hundreds of rare and endangered animals at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo • Visit Tamworth’s Australian Country Music Hall of Fame • See grand cathedrals and colonial buildings in green, tree-lined streets with a panoramic tour of Armidale

• Accommodation in carefully selected 3 and 4-star rated centrally located hotels/motels with private facilities.

Hotel taxes and service charges.

• Breakfast daily and welcome and farewell dinners • First-class train travel and travel in a first-class coach • Sightseeing and general entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary

This will be a wonderful experience travelling through NSW from Sydney across the Blue Mountains to the Central Ranges, Central NSW, New England and the North Coast. The tour is fully escorted and includes rail and coach travel, sightseeing tours in each region and special events for tour members. We hope that you can join us for two fun weeks.

TOUR PRICE

*Includes GST • The price for flights will be additional

The price per person, twin-share ....................... $3,990 Single supplement ........ $1,000

Concession Card Holders Discount Available

Book with confidence: Deposit refundable up to 90 days before departure

Travelrite International P/L 423 Whitehorse Road Balwyn, Victoria 3135

Toll Free: 1800 630 343 Phone: (03) 8803 6868

Email: balwyn@travelrite.com.au www.travelrite.com.au

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explore

Saturday 17 April 2021

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

VITI CULTURE

Mona-style museums and cuisine are the latest to invade SA’s wine region, writes Louise Goldsbury.

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verybody keeps apologising for their purple-stained hands. It’s ‘vintage’ in McLaren Vale – the annual time when grapes are picked and pressed – and winemakers are excited about this year’s quality. The region has experienced its best growing conditions in recent memory due to a wet winter followed by a mild and dry summer, allowing slow ripening and intense flavours to develop evenly.

The cuisine scene is also developing beautifully, with a variety of dining options sprouting up at cellar doors, and art and culture are also on the rise.

“Ten years ago you’d be hard pressed to find a place for lunch, but since then the region has completely changed and there’s plenty of choice,” says Mark Lloyd, director at Coriole, which has a delightful courtyard restaurant overlooking the estate gardens.

Five minutes down the street, Maxwell Wines delivers a superb degustation at its high-end Ellen Street Restaurant. At Chalk Hill, Italian snacks can be nibbled while tasting wine or gin at outdoor tables.

Mitolo’s lively Little Wolf Osteria feels more like feasting with friends and family; Wirra Wirra has a casual café; and Beresford sells platters to eat by the fireplace.

Private dining is also offered by sixthgeneration vigneron Bec Hardy, which she hosts in her Tipsy Hill residence.

And then there’s the standalone venues, such as the waterfront Star of Greece — a reminder that this is one of very few wine destinations surrounded by beaches.

On Saturday mornings, Willunga Farmers Market showcases the best fresh food and drinks made in the Fleurieu Peninsula, sprawling from the cobblestone town square to a park across the street. This friendly gathering place demonstrates the community spirit of McLaren Vale, where small producers have a genuine passion

for their creations and generously support others in their hometown.

“We’re all competitors but not in a true sense,” says Tom Harvey, director of Chalk Hill Wines. “We grew up here, we went to school together, we’re still friends, and you help each other out.” / CHALK HILL One of the best examples of collaboration is the one-stop hilltop shared by Chalk Hill Wines, Never Never Distilling Company and Cucina di Strada. The distillery recently sold out of Ginache (grenache grapes steeped in gin) and its award-winning Juniper Freak. Seated tastings of small-batch nebbiolo and nero d’Avola are exclusively available at the cellar door.

Wine or gin flights can be served in the shared space with a magnificent vineyard vista, but the indoor areas are equally impressive. / D’ARENBERG The fine dining venue at the distinctive d’Arenberg Cube has closed but d’Arry’s Verandah and Polly’s Wine Lounge remain open. The real attraction, however, is the off-kilter building and the Alternate Realities Museum, both created by artist, collector and fourth-generation winemaker Chester Osborn. Many of the artworks are inspired by d’Arenberg’s practices, such as a cow hugging a lie detector machine, suggesting

Clockwise from top: the famous d’Arenberg Cube; Primo Estate; Wirra Wirra.

that the hyped benefits of biodynamic wine “could all be a pack of lies”, explains Osborn. A self-guided tour app is available for iPhones. Entry ($15) includes winetasting on the top floor, with views across the Willunga Hills and Gulf St Vincent. A Salvador Dali surrealist exhibition featuring 25 bronze sculptures and graphic artworks is an extra $25. / MAXWELL WINES Beekeeping, mushroom-picking, a picnic with lawn games and getting lost in a maze are some of the experiences available at this family-run winery, carved into a limestone hill. Book a tour and pour a glass of red straight from the barrel. Indulge in head chef Fabian Lehmann’s multi-course

masterpiece of crab, trout, beef and a bitesize lamb-fat donut, ending with pastry chef Connor Bishop’s whipped parsnip cheesecake, apples poached in spiced mead syrup and buckwheat ice cream. Mead (honey wine) can also be sampled at the cellar door. / WIRRA WIRRA Lots of changes are coming for this renowned 125-year-old brand, one of Australia’s most sustainable vineyards.

Loved for its pies and panini, Harry’s Deli will be expanded, while the new Wirra Wirra Wellness Resort is due for completion next year. The cellar door has been renovated to enable tastings while seated at comfortable lounges, “like a mini-masterclass”, says

explore

Saturday 17 April 2021

7 SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Take me there Fly: Fly direct to Adelaide from Canberra or Newcastle.

Drive: 45 minutes south from Adelaide.

Stay: A onebedroom suite at Old Chaff Mill Retreat starts at $475 per night. oldchaffmill.com.au Explore more: mclarenvale.info

managing director Andrew Kay. Other activities include behind-the-scenes tours around the original ironstone cellars to taste the best shiraz, followed by lunch. Lucky guests get to catapult a watermelon across the grounds, in tribute to late proprietor Greg Trott whose unusual dream was to build a medieval siege machine and hold competitions with other wineries. / CORIOLE Gather at Coriole does a brilliant five- or seven-course menu of local sustainable produce with optional wine pairing. Try the fiano and sangiovese, both pioneered in Australia by Coriole, and chef Tom Tilbury’s kangaroo tail with fried saltbush and macadamia. The cellar door can host 10 people at a time but the gorgeous grounds are large enough for arts events like Opera in the Vines. Coriole Music Festival will be held in the barrel hall from May 21 to 24. / MITOLO The family’s Italian heritage shines through Mitolo’s range of wine varieties, traditional food and welcoming atmosphere.

Deliberately less luxe than it used to be, Little Wolf Osteria’s signature dish is lamb tomahawk, but the menu changes to offer other delights such as bone marrow risotto or homemade burrata. Another casual venue with music is on the horizon for summer. Wine tasting is Friday to Sunday. / OLIVER’S TARANGA Director and winemaker Corrina Wright and her cousin Brioni Oliver run this

180-year dynasty, contributing blocks of shiraz to Penfolds Grange, while also working with emerging grapes such as mencia, touriga and sagrantino. They’re also known for hosting the occasional Porchetta or Paella Party, a fourcourse banquet matched with Oliver’s Taranga wines. / BERESFORD WINES A lovely, spacious estate to relax by the fireplace with a pizza or cheese plate, and do a tasting flight of Beresford’s wines or offerings from its sister brewery and distillery venues. The Palate Liberator, for example, covers Riverland rose vodka, gin, brandy and whiskey. A decadent offering of four types of shiraz matched with chocolates is available until June. / PRIMO ESTATE There are no distractions at this modern piazzetta-style venue, except for the rows of cabernet grapes. A sit-down tasting features four premium wines, served with Joseph olive oil, Grana Padano cheese and crusty bread. Most known for the Joseph Moda, Primo Estate’s other standout is the Angel Gully Clarendon Shiraz 2019 containing a mix of 30 vintages dating back to the 1980s. / BEC HARDY WINES Dine with Bec and her husband Richard, who love to cook and entertain in their Tipsy Hill residence. For $295 per person

($395 with a professional chef) including unlimited wine from the 1990s to current vintage, the tailored dinner for your private group begins with drinks in the property’s spectacular two-acre gardens. / SALOPIAN INN Affectionately known as Slops, this popular restaurant is lucky to have Karena Armstrong, who formerly worked at Icebergs and Billy Kwong in Sydney. Settle into the old 1850s homestead and trust the ‘Feed Me’ menu for the chef’s selections of Asian, Middle

From top: a tasting inside the d’Arenberg Cube; treats at the Willunga Farmers’ Market; Star of Greece.

Eastern and South Australian flavours.

Check out the historic basement cellar to choose a regional red with dinner. / STAR OF GREECE Turn up in time to watch the sun set over the ocean at Port Willunga beach.

The food is not Greek (it’s named after a nearby shipwreck) but every dish is fresh and delicious. King George whiting and squid are specialities. Wine is also reasonably priced, despite the jawdropping clifftop location.

If you need a designated driver, contact Chook’s Little Winery Tours. (Hen’s and buck’s parties are banned, but that’s a whole other story.)

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Saturday 17 April 2021

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS

Take me there Drive: Robertson is halfway between Canberra and Sydney, a two-hour drive from either city.

Stay: Greengate Bed and Breakfast has two queen ensuite rooms available from $160 per night.

Explore more: visitsouthernhighlands.com.au

36 HOURS IN This petite town in the Southern Highlands makes a charming base for a weekend in the area, finds Hannah Warren.

T

here’s a hint of woodsmoke in the air as we drive into Robertson, winding carefully through bucolic hills. It’s one of those fine autumn afternoons, all beaming sun and light breeze, and the countryside, no doubt due to the recent rains, is as lush as ever.

The town is small – just one little main road with a few cafes, a pub, some small boutiques and a couple of grocery stores – and pretty, like the rest of the NSW Southern Highlands.

Down a long driveway, thick with agapanthus that brush the car, Greengate Bed and Breakfast is set in an old, sprawling building that has been meticulously restored. Our room, one of just two on offer, is spacious, with large windows offering views into the garden and the fields below.

The downside to quaint accommodation is a demanding cash-only policy and rigidly early breakfast times; my late rising partner misses out entirely on the first day.

I make it just in time and enjoy sourdough toast, croissants, eggs and bacon, though

Robertson

I question the decision to serve pork products in the town where they famously filmed Babe.

To get my partner some food, and myself a second coffee, we head to Native Grace nursery where the Bush Cafe food truck is doing a roaring trade in caffeine and steak sandwiches that we enjoy among the plants.

The shop also sells a range of locally made sauces and marinades that we can’t resist.

We make a quick stop at the Big Potato, which looks, to my untrained eye, more like a large poo, but it holds a place in the heart of locals, who saved it from being turned into a carpark a few years ago.

At the Robertson Cheese Factory, we browse the range of local goodies and try a few cheeses, but are disappointed to find no actual factory. Still, my partner is taking the order to “buy from the bush” seriously, and he purchases some cheese made a town or two over.

We decide it’s midday somewhere and set a course for wine country, about a 25-minute drive away, ending up at Southern Highlands Winery. Upstairs is a

chic restaurant and bar and, downstairs, where we enjoy a leisurely tasting, the cellar door looks out over rolling hills.

We’re headed for the next winery when my partner spots a sign for Berrima, where he spent time as a child, so we make the turn. A similar size to Robertson, Berrima has a long history that we learn about at the former courthouse museum. The selfguided tour includes a so-bad-it’s-good documentary, several terrifying mannequins lurking in dark corners and an impossibly ill-conceived re-enactment of a famous court case. We love the whole thing.

From top: Cheesemaker Mark Williams of Robertson’s Small Cow Farm; James Cromwell and Babe; Mount Ashby Estate.

After stimulating the local economy by buying a large quantity of locally blended tea from a nearby shop, we get back on the road. We drive through Moss Vale – where children have actually set up an old-school lemonade stand on the side of the road – to Mount Ashby Estate. It came highly recommended, so we’re disappointed to find them completely booked out. On a lovely afternoon like this, their garden-side terrace looks like the perfect place for a glass of wine.

Never mind, some friends who live in town have invited us to join them at the Robertson Public House, so we head back for a few Highlander beers – which you can only get in Robertson – and live music out on the sunny balcony. Our friends declare that “real Robbo” has to be seen down at the bowlo, so we wander over to find that the first-grade cricket team has just won the local competition and all the beer taps are occupied filling the trophy cup – a worthy cause we think.

As evening falls, my partner and I walk up the hill and out of town a little way to the Robertson Hotel, which was named the most luxurious hotel in the Commonwealth in 1925. While faded, it has retained much of its old-world charm, sitting proudly in extensive gardens above town. We’ve booked dinner in the fine old dining room and, being one of just a few groups, get a large corner by a fireplace to ourselves. The food is simple but well executed, and the service is attentive and friendly.

The compact hotel bar is still open, so we get whiskies and take them to the huge, unoccupied sitting room, all leather couches and high ceilings, and spend the rest of the night wrapped in faux-fur blankets playing chess in front of the glowing fireplace.

On the highway out of town the next morning, we’re debating stopping for coffee and a heartier breakfast when we spot the famous Robertson Pie Shop – a second too late. My partner, never one to falter in his quest for a delicious snack, takes a sharp turn and the car ends up wedged gently in a ditch. While we wait for the NRMA, we get pies and coffees that we enjoy in the sun. They’re good, but probably not worth the two-hour delay. We won’t make the same mistake next time we’re in town.

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Saturday 17 April 2021

NEW ZEALAND

Dodge the Aussies

Spectacular views at The Catlins

Craig Tansley explores the destinations in New Zealand that aren’t on the regular tourist maps.

T

here’s undoubtedly going to be a scramble when New Zealand’s borders open to Australians. But if you want to beat the crowds of Aussies, there are alternative ports of call not too far from where everyone else is going.

Here are the five best spot swaps.

Skip The Bay Of Islands, Try Hokianga Harbour

Skip Dunedin, Try The Catlins

• How don’t more Australians know about The Catlins? It’s a bona-fide Kiwi mystery.

But most Aussies stick to the beaten path in New Zealand – so stray a little off it and you’ll reap the rewards. The Catlins is a charming little natural paradise an hour’s drive south of Dunedin and is one of the most sparsely populated regions in NZ, though it’s easy to access via the Southern Scenic Route. Here, mountains literally tumble into the sea and onto stunning, deserted beaches. The Catlins is home to the world’s rarest penguins, and the most endangered sea lions – and they’re all just on the beach in front of you. You’ll also see Hector dolphins, the world’s smallest, and six of the country’s best waterfalls, as well as one of only three accessible forest fossils left on Earth. It’s 180 million years old and you can only see it on the beach at low tide. It’s not far from gigantic caves that look like catherals, also only seen at low tide. There’s plenty to do around here; it’s one of NZ’s best surfing areas, with surf schools to learn at, or you can hike, cycle, fish or swim. A range of accommodation options is spread across two main villages; wake with the birds at B&Bs among the forest, eat with farming families at farmstays, or try some oldworld NZ lodges near the beach.

Take me there: Fly to Queenstown, then drive south for three hours to The Catlins along the Southern Scenic Route.

More: catlins.org.nz

Cromwell’s wineries

Skip Queenstown, Try Cromwell

• While no-one’s questioning the credentials of Queenstown – an adventure capital surrounded entirely by stunning mountain ranges and a glacial lake rumoured to be bottomless – you just know it’ll be packed solid with Aussies. So why not drive 50 minutes down the road to another stunning town on its own lake, that’s surrounded by its own mountains? You won’t have heard of Cromwell, but it’s New Zealand’s best hidden gem. Two rivers meet by a charming lakeside village beneath rugged mountains; you can even take a jet-boat ride on the same river (Kawarau River) as you would in Queenstown. It also has an historic precinct that dates back to its gold rush days in the 1860s, and its lakeside village is full of boutique shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants, as well as a farmers’ market where you’ll meet all the locals. They call Cromwell the fruit bowl of the south – there are fruit stalls everywhere – though what you’ve got right beside Cromwell is some of the best wineries in New Zealand.

The area produces 70 per cent of Central Otago’s wine, which includes some of the planet’s best pinot noir. Check out the views from the tasting rooms and restaurants at wineries like Carrick Winery and Mt Difficulty Wines.

Take me there: Fly to Queenstown with Air NZ or Qantas, then drive 50 minutes east.

More: newzealand.com/au/cromwell

• Many Aucklanders and travellers make the pilgrimage (especially in summer time) to the Bay of Islands, three hours north of Auckland. Yet few come to the other coast of Northland. The Bay of Islands is the country’s most popular sailing, swimming and beach destination – but it gets crowded. An hour west, on the west coast of Northland, soak up a much more mellow beach vibe at Hokianga Harbour. Drive west and the first thing you’ll notice is the turqoise waters of the harbour and the dazzling white sand dunes by the coast (they’re as much as 150 metres high, and you can toboggan down them). The twin towns of Omapere and Opononi are here on the harbour, as well as Rawene – which has

Hokianga Harbour

to be the country’s most picturesque town with its art galleries, craft shops, cafes and historic houses on the water. This is the birthplace of New Zealand – it’s where one of the first ever Maori settlements was in the 14th century and the name means “nest of the northern tribes”. There are cultural centres to check out, though for a real taste of history check out the gigantic kauri trees in the forests here – one of them is 2,000 years old. Stay in an historic hotel with views across the water, then kayak, take boat tours and fish off the wharfs with the locals.

Take me there: Fly to Auckland, then

drive north for 3 ½ hours up the west coast.

More: newzealand.com/au/hokianga/, hokianga.co.nz

explore

11

Saturday 17 April 2021

NEW ZEALAND

Skip Wellington (City), Try Porirua

You won’t have heard of Porirua – it’s overshadowed by New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington, 20 minutes south.

Although Porirua is technically part of Wellington metropolitan area, it’s not well known to travellers – but that’s the great part, you’ll have it to yourselves. This is one impressive place – there are more than 100 kilometres of walking tracks here, which traverse stunning coastline, rainforest, farms, wetlands and historic sites. The city is built on Porirua Harbour and is surrounded entirely by coastal parks, reserves and beautiful beaches. There’s lots to do and see – kayak on the harbour, take a walk past the 36 iconic jewel-coloured boat sheds that were built in the 1940s right on the harbour, or take tours by boat or jet ski.

You can also take a day trip to Mana Island, 20 minutes by ferry off the coast. It’s a predator-free nature reserve where you can see little spotted kiwis; you’ll also encounter blue penguins and views all the way to the South Island. But its Porirua’s diversity that really makes this a buzzing city to visit – check out night markets with food trucks offering cuisine from all over the world, while the city’s restaurants reflect its multiculturalism (including New Zealand’s only Polish restaurant). You can also check out museums, art galleries and some of the best fish and chip restaurants in in the country, then watch the sunset over the sand.

Take me there: Easy, fly to Wellington then drive north for 20 minutes.

More: poriruacity.govt.nz/discover-porirua

Porirua Harbour at dusk

The night sky at Great Barrier Island

Surfers and beachcombers will love its wild east coast, but its west coast offers calm water in bays.”

Skip Waiheke Island, Try Great Barrier Island

Travellers flock to Waiheke Island, a 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland.

It’s a stunning mix of vineyards, cafes, restaurants, olive groves and beaches. But go further on your ferry (or fly) to one of New Zealand’s wildest island destinations, Great Barrier Island. Locals live off the grid, using solar power and rainwater – and one in ten of the 1000 locals are artists.

But this is the sort of island to inspire creativity – 60 per cent of the island is nature reserve loaded with hikes, even to hot springs you can bathe in (the island is located on a geothermal area). Surfers and beachcombers will love its wild east coast, but its west coast offers calm water in bays and deep sheltered harbours perfect

for swimming, kayaking and diving. Great Barrier Island is also the only island on Earth declared a Dark Sky Sanctuary – check out the Milky Way and all those stars at night from B&Bs and guesthouses built in the forests and by the beach. But there’s actually a lot more to Great Barrier Island than nature – for such a small population, it has a thriving community with lively nights.

You’ll get to meet artists, organic gardeners, hunters and brewers – and there are art and heritage trails to follow to find all the best galleries. You’ll also find the Southern Hemisphere’s most remote boutique gin distillery and zero-waste, solar-powered microbreweries.

Take me there: Fly to Auckland, then take a four-and-a-half ferry, or 30 minute flight.

More: greatbarrier.co.nz

WIN A VIKING RIVER CRUISE WORTH $22,990 From Moscow to St. Petersburg, this 13-day voyage reveals the real Russia as never before.

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ENTER AT exploretravel.com.au/viking Terms and conditions apply; For full terms and conditions see the competition entry form; Entries close at 11.59pm AEST on Saturday, 8th May 2021. Entry is open to residents of Australia aged 18 years or older, excluding employees of Rural Press Pty Ltd (T/A Australian Community Media (ACM)) publications, the competition/event employees and their immediate family, travel agents involved with and agencies associated with this promotion. The winner will be drawn by computerised random selection on 10/05/2021 at The Senior, 16A Mildon Road Tuggerah 2250, by a representative of ACM. Winners will be notified by email and phone on the same day with instructions on how to claim their prize. Prize is a Viking “Waterways of the Tsars” Cruise for two people, leaving Moscow on 15 September 2022 travelling to St Petersburg for 13 days and 12 nights twin share, valued at $22,990. There is one prize to be won. The total prize value is a maximum of $22,990. Authorised under NSW Authority Number TP/00287, ACT Permit Number ACT TP 21/00439 and SA Licence Number T21/408. The promoter is Rural Press Pty Ltd ABN 47 000 010 382 of 159 Bells Line of Rd, North Richmond, NSW, 2754.

Wonders of the Murray River & Kangaroo Island Tour

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Your Itinerary*

JULY 2021 SEPTEMBER 2022

Day 1

Adelaide - Hotel Stay

Adelaide, South Australia’s cosmopolitan capital, is a delightful cultural city which hosts international arts festivals with spin-offs including fringe and film festivals. Compact in size and with a number of major cultural

Sale Extended: Save up to $600 per couple^ - Ends 30.04.21

and entertainment venues as well as 29 large public parks, it regularly ranks among the world’s most liveable cities.

Day 2

Adelaide - Hotel Stay & Tour

Embark on a tour to South Australia’s premium wine region to sample some of the Barossa Valley’s finest wines. Soak up breathtaking sights of sprawling vineyards at the multi award-winning Jacob’s Creek Visitor Centre, where you’ll sample delicious wines and enjoy a walking tour. Next, you’ll travel to Mengler Hill Lookout for beguiling views of the valley before continuing on to Saltram Wine Estate for a further wine-tasting tour.

Day 3

Kangaroo Island - Hotel Stay & Tour

Today, you’ll take a ferry journey to Kangaroo Island for your two-day tour. Kangaroo Island offers stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters and beautiful wilderness inhabited by native Australian animals. Visit the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, enjoy a beach walk amongst Australian sea lions at the Seal Bay Conservation Park and explore Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park.

Kangaroo Island

Includes all flights, taxes & transfers

Day 4

DURATION

DEPARTING

HOLIDAY CODE

7 nights*

Jul 2021 - Sep 2022

CRU2227

Enjoy more of the attractions of this captivating island. Indulge in the delicious flavours and relish beautiful vistas of this striking region.

Day 5

Fly Cruise Prices*

per person

INSIDE fr

$2,499

pp

Kangaroo Island - Tour & Adelaide Hotel Stay

OUTSIDE fr

STATEROOM fr

$2,999pp

$3,699pp

PS Murray Princess

Step on board

built specifically for the Murray River and who cruises with her.

Days 6-7 Murray River Cruise Wind through the serene waters between Walker Flat and Murray Bridge as you drink in the spectacular riverlands, admiring the

River birdlife

Highlights of your three night adventure on board the ‘Dragon-Fly’ boat, marvelling at the astounding landscapes during a nature walk and savouring fantastic flavours of this famous region.

Day 8

Mannum - Disembark PS Murray Princess & Fly Home

Murray River

Arriving back in Mannum after breakfast, you’ll disembark at the Mannum Wharf and transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

4 night Murray River cruise also available.

Opening Hours (AEST): Mon to Fri 9am - 7pm | Sat & Sun 9am - 5pm

views of the ever-changing flora and fauna. include close encounters with river birdlife

Fully Escorted Tours Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings 2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: - Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery - Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk - In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain - Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park - Lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm - Wine tasting at Dudley Wines Clifftop Cellar Door

To book call (02) 8313 5913 imagineholidays.com.au

yesteryear as you savour your elegant

offers a true taste of a bygone era to anyone

River Cruise 3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing - Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse - Take a guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat - Taste Riverland food and wine - Dragon-fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour

All flights, taxes & transfers

Embrace the character and charm of surroundings. This remarkable vessel was

Package Includes*

Hotel Stays 3 night four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast 1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast and lunch

Mannum - Embark

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Terms and Conditions apply, for full details please visit imagineholidays.com.au. All prices shown in AUS Dollars. Prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing and include flights from Sydney (regional flights available). *Prices, itinerary and duration based on 31 January 2022 departures. ^Prices shown include discount and savings are based on 2 adults sharing an Outside cabin. Credit cards charged at 1.5%, if paying by AMEX a charge of 2.5% will be added. ABN number 48614987718. Prices are correct at the time of print and are subject to change. Hero image is intended for illustrative purposes only.