742

June/July 2014 Issue 742

A ROYAL VISIT If Queenstown’s good enough for Kate & Will...

INDO-NEEDS-YA Take a trip to Bali and beyond

R E D N O W P U C D WORL ) k we meant? in th u o y id d t (wha football time ’s it , p e Y ? y c and boun What’s round

+ WEST COAST BEACHES RÜFÜS INTERVIEW WORKING IN SNOWFIELDS SUNSHINE COAST

EDITORIAL Editor Caroline Garnar Online Editor Vicky Anscombe TNT Australia Editorial Ian Armitage ian.armitage@tntmagazine.com Contributors Michael Gadd, Francesca Baker, Alexandra E Petri, Rich Keam DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Design and production manager Lisa Ferron

FROM THE EDITOR

SALES Sales manager Jaqui Ward jaqui.ward@tntmagazine.com STARTRACK MEDIA LTD CEO Kevin Ellis Chairman Ken Hurst PUBLISHER Startrack Media Ltd PRINTED BY Rural Press PICTURES Getty Images | Thinkstock | TNT Images | Tourism New Zealand | Tourism Fiji TNT Magazine online tntdownunder.com General enquiries ian.armitage@tntmagazine.com jaqui.ward@tntmagazine.com

Phones had a cord. TV only had three channels. The Beatles dominated the charts.

Most of us weren’t even yet a twinkle in our father’s eye. Yes, 1966 seems a millennium ago, and yet England still clings to that year as it was the last time we won the FIFA World Cup. We’ll be cheering again this year, fruitlessly no doubt, but to find out who to watch (particularly once England have inevitably struck out) and where, turn to our guide on page 18.

If you’d rather kick yourself in the balls than watch a bunch of men kick a ball, then this month is a good time to escape for a trip. Newcastle may not sound like the place to go to escape football, but this isn’t Geordie land, this is Australia, and so you should expect surfing, quad biking and waterside sipping (p42).

WHERE TO GET TNT

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

If you’re feeling homesick, try Queenstown for a taste of England – although it’s arguably tastier, with better weather, stunning scenery and a beach-side culture where ‘kiss me quick’ would only be said if preceding the sentence ‘before I bunjee off the Kawarau Suspension Bridge’ (p66).

If it’s time at the beach that’s beckoning you, check out the Sunshine Coast (p36), West Australia’s top 10 sandy spots (p46), or for unbeatable beach bumming, head for the stunning islands of Indonesia (p82).

Whether you’ll be cheering at the footie, screaming in Queenstown or chilling in Indonesia, have a good one – and come on England!

caroline.garnar@tntmagazine.com

TNT Magazine is printed on paper from sustainable forests.

There is no business connection between the proprietors of this magazine and TNT Ltd, the worldwide transportation group.

TNT Magazine does not assume responsibility for unsolicited submissions – material is sent at the owner’s risk. TNT Magazine accepts advertising material and other contributions in good faith, and takes no responsibility for claims, errors or omissions. Copyright here and abroad of all original materials is held by TNT Magazine.

Reproduction in whole or part is forbidden, except with permission of the publishers.

Everyday adventurers

The white stuff

China in your hand

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3

THIS MONTH DIARY 6 FOOD 10 DRINK 11

42

GIGS 12 PUBS

14

THE WORLD CUP

18

RÜFÜS INTERVIEW

25

SPORT ROUND-UP 26 BOLLINGER INTERVIEW 28 TRAVEL

66

TRAVEL DIARY 32 HOTSHOTS

34

ON THE COVER

TRAVEL REVIEW

36

THE WORLD CUP

TOP 5: SUNSHINE COAST 38 OZ: NEWCASTLE

42

TOP 10: WEST BEACHES 46 NZ: QUEENSTOWN

66

BIG TRIP: INDONESIA

82

18

Our guide to the footy showdown

RÜFÜS INTERVIEW

25

We chat to the awesome indie band

THE SUNSHINE COAST

25

38

The top towns to see while there

WEST COAST BEACHES 46 Our top 10 sandy spots

A ROYAL VISIT

66

Do a Kate & Wills in Queenstown

AUSTRALIA LISTINGS

50

NEW ZEALAND LISTINGS

70

Visit Bali and beyond...

DESPERATELY SEEKING

89

WORK IN SNOWFIELDS

CAREERS 90

4

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INDO-NEEDS-YA 82

Get stuck into the white stuff

90

82

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM MUSTANG TNT ADS FOR JUNE.indd 2

26/05/2014 9:43 pm

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THIS MONTH’S TOP PICKS SYDNEY FILM FESTIVAL

WALLABIES VS FRANCE

June 4-15 Sydney

June 7, 14 & 21 Various

According to a recent study 22% of us think we’re film buffs. We doubt it, but a great way to improve your film knowledge would be paying the Sydney Film Festival a visit. It showcases the best of cinema, with more than 180 films.

Saturday afternoon.

International rugga.

Do you need anything else?

Well, it could be summer but hey ho. Anyway, the Wallabies will be looking to get one over the French when they face off in Brisbane, Melbs and Sydney.

Times vary Sydney CBD venues sff.org.au

Times vary Suncorp, Etihad & Allianz Stadiums rugby.com.au

$10+

$49+

MUST DO BEER CAN REGATTA July 6 Darwin Darwinites are among the heaviest drinkers in Australia, something which comes in handy during the annual and utterly insane Beer Can Regatta, where participants take to the seas in boats made from empty beer cans. Entrance is by a gold coin donation. $1

A lot of drinking went into this boat

ALL BLACKS VS ENGLAND

SKYCITY TRIPLE CROWN

ALICE BEANIE FESTIVAL

WINTER MAGIC FESTIVAL

June 7, 14 & 21 NZ

June 20-22 Darwin

June 20-23 Alice Springs

June 21 Blue Mountains

It was one of the most anticipated Test series in recent years but is now being referred to as a ‘tour de farce’ with a host of names missing from England boss Stuart Lancaster’s ranks.

Lambs to the slaughter!

V8 Supercars is massive Down Under with petrolheads flocking in their thousands to see racing legends like Jamie Whincup.

If the roar of an engine gets you hard, head to Hidden Valley for an action-packed weekend, on and off track.

Australia is famous for hosting some pretty unique events but this one feels like a bit of a yarn... It celebrates all that is great and good about the beanie. There are 6,000 (give or take) on show – a brilliantly barmy beanie-fest.

Katoomba is a tiny little town in the Blue Mountains and every year it hosts an awesome street party. Roads are closed off and the town becomes a massive performance space and there’s a Grand Parade – best of all it’s free.

Fri-Sun from 7am Hidden Valley Raceway v8supercars.com.au

Times vary Around town beaniefest.org

The Grand Parade is 11.30am Katoomba Town Centre wintermagic.com.au

$57+

Times vary Eden Park, Forsyth Barr Stadium and Waikato Stadium allblacks.com

6

10am-5pm Mindil Beach, Darwin beercanregatta.org.au

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$25+

$1+

FREE

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Hot stuff, baby

SAWTELL CHILLI FESTIVAL July 5 Sawtell, NSW Prepare yourselves for a bit of word play on this one.

The Sawtell Chilli Festival is one of the ‘hottest’ events on the Coffs Coast and it’ll definitely ‘warm your cockles’ during winter (sorry!). There are loads of chilli-related things happening, including a ‘fiery’ (guffaw) and ultra-competitive chilli-eating contest. If you like it ‘hot’, save the date. Oh, and bring a cardi as it might be chilli (not sorry).

FREE

All day First Avenue, Sawtell sawtellchillifestival.com.au

DARWIN CUP CARNIVAL

RUSSELL BIRDMAN FEST

July 5-Aug 4 Darwin

July 11-13 Russell, NZ

One for all you horse racing fans, and it’s spread over a whole month.

The Darwin Cup Carnival kicks off on Saturday July 5 and ends with the running of the Darwin Cup on Monday August 4. Betting, dressing up and booze. Win.

Silly. That’s what Russell Birdman Festival is. From men in frocks Drag Racing, dinghy races and spaghetti eating to the main event itself, the Birdman Jump, it is three days of non-stop and brilliantly fun stupidity.

From 9am Fannie Bay Racecourse darwinturfclub.org.au

Times vary Russell Wharf, Cass Street russellbirdman.co.nz

Photos: Getty/Facebook

$20+

FREE

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East: Origin rugby pits state against state and it is the tits. That is all

North: Camels are snooty bastards, but they sure can run

NZ: Newcastle will look to impress in Christchurch

NORTH

WEST

SOUTH

DARWIN BLUES FESTIVAL JUNE 28 / 9AM / $35 A day of blues and roots featuring the likes of Big Bill Morganfield (great name).

LUXE RNB SATURDAYS EVERY SATURDAY / 10PM / $13 The hottest RnB and hip hop around. Word.

ADELAIDE CABARET FESTIVAL JUNE 6-21 / 9AM / $69 Two weeks of music, satire, comedy and cabaret, starting on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend.

Darwin Amphitheatre Darwin

Players Bar 26 Mandurah Terrace, Mandurah facebook.com/PlayersBarMandurah

darwinbluesfestival.com

TERRITORY DAY JULY 1 / 9AM / FREE The NT’s very own day and they mark the occassion with a fireworks display Guy Fawkes would be proud of.

Various venues Darwin

Dunstan Playhouse Adelaide adelaidecabaretfestival.com.au

LITTLE COMEDY LOUNGE EVERY SATURDAY / 8PM / $30 Little Creature’s brews up the ale, while Little Comedy serves up laughs from some of the best comics around.

CITY OF PORT AUGUSTA CUP JULY 6 / 11AM See some horse racing, then hop off to the Flinders Ranges.

Little Creature’s Brewery

Port Augusta Racecourse

40 Mews Road, Perth

Port Augusta

comedylounge.com.au

paracing.org.au

dcm.nt.gov.au/territoryday

8

CAMEL CUP JULY 12 / 10.30AM / FREE Everybody enjoys a bit of humping, and this is the world’s most famous camel race.

INTERNATIONAL ICE HOCKEY: USA VS CANADA JULY 11 & 12 / 6.30PM / FROM $81 Witness one of the most infamous rivalries between two great hockey nations.

SUNSET KAYAK TOUR JULY 11 / 3.30PM / $60 Sunset is a magical time on the river especially when teamed with the rising of a full moon. On this tour you can enjoy both.

Blatherskite Park

Perth Arena

Berri Visitor Information Centre

Alice Springs

Wellington Street and Milligan Street, Perth

Berri

camelcup.com.au

internationalicehockey.com.au

canoeadventure.com.au

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EAST

NEW ZEALAND

FOODIES DREAM TOUR EVERY SATURDAY / 10AM / $40 Learn about Melbourne’s evolving food culture while sampling a range of speciality foods and deli items.

IRB JUNIOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP JUNE 2-20 / FROM $15 See the future stars of world rugby as 12 of the best under 20 teams battle it out to see who’ll be crowned world champs.

Queen Victoria Market

Various venues

513 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne qvm.com.au

WATCH THIS

Eden Park, QBE Stadium and ECOLight Stadium irb.com/jwc

STATE OF ORIGIN JUNE 18 / 7PM-11PM / FREE The 2014 State of Origin series (rugby league if you don’t know) is coming to the Gold Coast on June 18 and is the second game of a threematch series between the Queensland and NSW. Surfers Paradise RSL 9 Beach Road, Gold Coast

ZIRKA CIRCUS JUNE 11-29 / $40 Stay away from this is if you have a phobia of clowns, otherwise get yourself down there.

The Trusts Arena Auckland zirkacircus.com

surfersrsl.com.au

SIX STATES OF BEER JUNE 18 / 6PM / $60 This’ll feature some of WA’s best craft beers.

Entry includes four courses of food and five beers.

The Oaks Hotel 118 Military Rd, Neutral Bay, Sydney oakshotel.com.au

CUTTING TEETH OPEN MIC NIGHTS JUNE 11- JULY 9 / FREE Keen muso looking to jam or a fan of live music?

Whatever you are you’ll fit in at this brilliant open mic night held every Wednesday. Music, food and potential for humiliation. Perfect.

Empire Tavern 137, Victoria Street, Auckland empire.co.nz

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL ANIMATION FESTIVAL JUNE 19-29 / 9AM / FROM $100 Animation was invented by Charles-Emile Reynaud in 1877 and has come a long way since, as this festival will show.

DUNEDIN MIDWINTER CARNIVAL JUNE 21 / 5.30PM / FREE Giant lanterns and towering stilt-walkers, this annual procession draws thousands of people out into the fresh winter air.

Australian Centre for the Moving Image

Dunedin Octagon

Federation Square, Melbourne

Dunedin, 9016

miaf.net

midwintercarnival.co.nz

A LA CARTE IN THE PARK JUNE 21-22 / 9AM / FREE We think you deserve a treat every now and then so roll out a blanket for a day of sun, food, wine and fun on the Gold Coast.

HOT RED HAWKE’S BAY WINE SHOW JUNE 16 & 17 / 6PM-9PM / $42.90 Like a bit of the old vino do you? Then you’ll love this. There will be 200 red and white wines on offer from 29 different wineries.

Lionel Perry Park

Wellington at Te Papa & Auckland at

Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise surfersparadisefestival.com

Viaduct Events Centre Wellington/Auckland, NZ

Photos: GettyfFacebook

winehawkesbay.co.nz

BOWEN OFFSHORE SUPERBOAT CHAMPIONSHIPS JUNE 21-22 / 9AM / FREE It isn’t the mega-boats that makes this stand out, nor is it the race element. It’s the setting.

There’s also a street party, which helps.

FOOTBALL UNITED TOUR 2014 – WELLINGTON DOUBLE HEADER JULY 26 / 10AM-7.30PM / $35 EPL clubs West Ham and Newcastle take on The A-League’s Sydney FC and Wellington Phoenix.

Bowen Foreshore

Westpac Stadium

Santa Barbara Parade, Bowen

15 Main North Road, Christchurch

bowensuperboats.com

footballaustralia.com.au

GODZILLA If you haven’t been to see Godzilla yet, why? The world’s most famous reptilian monster has been reborn and it is an epic action adventure, as he (he is a he, we think) rises from the depths to restore balance as humanity stands defenceless against giant radioactive monsters. We’ve always had a soft spot for Godzilla and the good news is that this film isn’t anything like the 1998 reboot, which was pretty crap.

Its opening credits are epic, recounting Godzilla sightings during and immediately after WWII. That’s followed by action, action, tension, action and more tension as you wait with baited breath for the first glimpse of the fire-breathing beast. This is an epic monster movie, as giants go on the rampage and battle it out – God help the people and buildings that get in the way.

Director Gareth Edwards has done a great job. He’s upheld the Godzilla legacy and created a new version that is, well, terrific. Don’t expect great acting. This is a violent spectacle with plenty of mayhem and destruction. Poor San Fran.

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BITE SIZE CAIRNS HOT SPOTS HOSTEL HOOK-UP One of the best places to drink (and hook up) in Cairns is Gilligan’s.

It’s one of the biggest hostels in Australia and is always rammed.

What more could a hormone-filled backpacker want than a range of inhouse discounts and a 2,000 person capacity club? Yeah, we thought so. gilligans.com.au

BAA-RMY NIGHT OUT Cairns prides itself on being a party town and nowhere throws better parties than The Woolshed on Shields Street. With themed events every day, affordable booze and great music, the Wooly is an absolute staple of any night out in tropical Queensland. By the end of the night you’ll be dancing on a table hitting the tin roof.

GOODTIME DINER Diner

thewoolshed.com.au

You may have seen the ad for GoodTime Burgers a few months ago.

An image of a woman’s naked buttocks encasing a burger filled with all the trimmings? It certainly rubbed some people up the wrong way, but nonetheless got tongues wagging and put them on the map. Now the team are back with GoodTime Diner, upstairs from the Bondi Junction burger joint and priding themselves on ‘low and slow’ cooked meats.

THE GRUB The six-hour BBQ pork ribs certainly attest to their long, hot, smoker method of cooking – falling off the bone and dripping in sweet, sticky BBQ sauce. While you do want to come here for a feast, the snacks are good too, such as tortilla chips with guacamole and salsa, cajun-charred corn or a tasty little mac’n’cheese. You can still get your burgers – and they’re rather sizeable – the Juicy Lucy had us in awe with its wagyu patty stuffed with mozzarella. And the Notorious P.I.G with pulled pork is awesome, just like its name.

BEHIND THE BAR As you can tell, this isn’t for the vegetarians, especially since the pick of the cocktail list has to be the Texas Old Fashioned with bacon-infused bourbon, and garnished with a bacon ‘swizzle stick’. If you prefer a meat-free drink, you can get your classic cocktail by request.

BILL PLEASE Grab some mates and share everything for a reasonably priced feast.

You’re looking at around $30 a head to roll out stuffed.

VERDICT Sure, the vibe might not be exactly fitting of the good time New Orleans era they’re aiming for, but give them a chance to let the grease settle and I think they’ll get there. For now, just loosen the belt buckles and indulge. Alex Harmon THE SCENE

Photos: Supplied/Facebook

WORTH ITS SALT

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If the mark of any good city’s bar and restaurant theme is its quality bistros, then Cairns has itself a gem in Salt House. Since 2009 this wonderful venue has offered locals and visitors a unique dining experience and one of the best panoramic views of the marina anywhere in Cairns. salthouse.com.au

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Level 1, 500 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction

goodtimediner.com

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WORK IN PROGRESS Cocktail bar

If you think the CBD is only for suits, the guys at Merivale want you to think again. The company has opened a brand new bar in the heart of the city with the feel of a pop-up and the energy of a low-slung Surry Hills dive bar, #WIP is shaking things up in a good way. You’ll find paste-up art by pop artist, Franck Gohier and wall space to create your art – that’s right – you can literally draw on the walls with the pencils and paints provided.

BEHIND THE BAR Fresh fruit cocktails are the order of the day and the bartenders will squeeze you a vitamin-rich refreshment (changing daily) so you can’t possibly feel guilty about drinking. The ‘Down the Stairs’, containing Zubrowka vodka, almond, fresh lemon and pressed apple ($18) hit the spot and arrives garnished with a cinnamon stick. There’s also a great selection of Australian wines, and if you buy a bottle, it’s served in a recycled Italian tinned tomato ‘wine cooler’.

THE GRUB ”Share or else!” insists the menu, so take note and round up a few friends. The Thai street-food offerings are mouth-wateringly good. Marinated mince prawns wrapped with egg noodle are tasty and only $3 each, while betel leaf wraps with smoked trout make a great drinking partner at $4.50 each.

BILL PLEASE Cocktails are on the expensive side, but worth it for the nutrient value.

If you’re breadline, stick to cheap cans of beer.

VERDICT Interactive, hip, and nowhere near as pretentious as the ‘writing on the wall’ may make it sound. Alex Harmon THE SCENE

merivale.com/wipbar

3 OF THE BEST SYDNEY NIGHT OUT STARTERS

THE GIN MILL

EL LOCO

HUGOS

The 1920s was just about the coolest era in all of human history. The people at the Gin Mill Social understand this and bring the Roaring Twenties to life in this speakeasy-style bar in the heart of Darlinghurtst. Head along on Fridays for some old-fashioned fun and a bit of jazz. And don’t forget your feather boa!

You can’t beat a proper Margarita and a spot of Mexican food can you? El Loco has you covered on both fronts – and with venues in both the city at the Slip Inn and on Faveaux Street in Surry Hills, you’ll find one that’s near to you. The tacos here are unreal and the Margaritas will get you fired up and ready to party.

Hugos is where Sydney’s best dressed and most beautiful like to start a night on the town. It’s one of bustling Kings Cross’s classiest establishments and has a great cocktail bar and restaurant upstairs and a superb little club downstairs, with lots of top-class DJs. Start (or finish) your night here – it’s lush.

slide.com.autheginmillsocial

merivale.com.au/elloco

hugos.com.au

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Photos: Supplied/Facebook

50 King St, Sydney

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TUE JUNE 17 Keith Urban $99+ Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane keithurban.net

BOOK NOW!

WED JUNE 18 Keith Urban $99+ Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane keithurban.net

THU JUNE 19 Coldplay $119 Enmore Theatre, Sydney coldplay.com/tour RUFUS $36.30 ANU Bar, Canberra facebook.com/rufussounds Dune Rats $17.35 Karova Lounge, Ballart dunerats.tv

FRI JUNE 20

Dune Rats $15 The Corner Hotel, Melbourne dunerats.tv

SAT JUNE 21 RUFUS $39.80 Enmore Theatre, Sydney facebook.com/rufussounds Dune Rats $18.50 Oxford Art Factory, Sydney dunerats.tv The Delltones $65 Brolga Theatre & Convention Centre, Maryborough delltones.com

THE LEGEND OF LUKE KELLY Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney. July 11, 13, 18 & 19 Luke Kelly, generally regarded as one of the greatest folk artists of the 20th Century, died 30 years ago. Thirty! How time flies... This July, “The Legend of Luke Kelly” performed by Chris Kavanagh – who bears an uncanny resemblance to Kelly – and the Patriots will pay tribute to this musical legend. They, and special guest Paddy Casey, will tour Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney this July. Don’t miss the chance to see a legend brought back to life. ticketmaster.com facebook.com/Chetfaker

WED JUNE 25 Keith Urban $89+ Collins Park, Tibbereena St, Narrabri keithurban.net

THU JUNE 26 Remi $21.50 The small Ballroom, Newcastle nicheproductions.com.au The Beards $20 Harvey Road Tavern, Gladstone thebeards.com.au/tour

SUN JUNE 22

FRI JUNE 27

RUFUS $39.80 Enmore Theatre, Sydney facebook.com/rufussounds

Remi $21 Trinty, Canberra nicheproductions.com.au

Dune Rats $15 The Lair - U18s, Sydney dunerats.tv

The Beards $20 The Lionleigh, Rockhampton thebeards.com.au/tour

Chet Faker $35 Lake Kawana Community Centre, Sunshine Coast

12

SAT JUNE 28 Remi $21

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Oxford Arts Factory, Sydney nicheproductions.com.au Dune Rats $18.40 The Zoo, Brisbane dunerats.tv Saskwatch $TBC Amplifier & Capitol Bar, Perth amplifiercapitol.com.au Potbelleez $12 Toucan Club, Mandurah facebook.com/toucanclubmandurah The Beards $20 Dalrymple Hotel, Townsvile thebeards.com.au/tour

SUN JUNE 29 Dune Rats $18.40 Alhambra Lounge - U18s, Brisbane dunerats.tv Keith Urban $99+ Perth Arena, Perth keithurban.net The Beards $20

The Jack, Cairns thebeards.com.au/tour

WED JUL 2

Perth violentsoho.com

FRI JUL 4

The Beards $25 The Spotted Cow, Toowoomba thebeards.com.au/tour

Violent Soho $34 The Gov, Adelaide violentsoho.com

Dan Sultan $39+ Solbar, Sunshine Coast dansultan.com

Remi $20.50 The Bakery, Perth nicheproductions.com.au

Violent Soho $34 The Bakery, Perth violentsoho.com

THU JUL 3 Chet Faker $35 HQ Adelaide, Adelaide facebook.com/Chetfaker The Beards $25 Sound Lounge, Gold Coast thebeards.com.au/tour Violent Soho $34 The Bakery,

The Beards $25 The Tovoli, Brisbane thebeards.com.au/tour

SAT JUL 5 Remi $17.50+ Rocket Bar, Adelaide nicheproductions.com.au Violent Soho $34 The Hi-Fi, Melbourne violentsoho.com The Beards $25 SolBar, Maroochydore thebeards.com.au/tour

Photo: Facebook

RUFUS $30 Waves Nightclub, Towradgi Beach Hotel, Wollongong towradgibeachhotel.com.au/ wavesclub

OZPUBS SYDNEY Anchor Bar 8 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach anchorbarbondi.com Bar Century 1/640, George St, CBD barcentury.com.au Beach Road Hotel 71 Beach Road, Bondi Beach beachroadbondi.com.au Candy’s Apartment 22 Bayswater Road, Potts Point candys.com.au Coogee Palace Hotel 169 Dolphin St, Coogee beachpalacehotel.com.au DOME Bar 589 Crown Street, Surry Hills domefunctions.com Donny’s Bar 7 Market Ln, Manly donnys.com.au Flinders Hotel 63-65 Flinders St, Surry Hills theflindershotel.com.au Hotel Bondi 178 Campbell Parade, Bondi hotelbondi.com.au Hotel Steyne 75 The Corso, Manly steynehotel.com.au In Situ 1/18 Sydney Rd, Manly insitumanly.com.au Kinselas Hotel 383 Bourke St, Darlinghurst kinselas.com.au

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

MELBOURNE

Black Pearl 304 Brunswick St, Fitzroy blackpearlbar.com.au Cherry Bar 103 Flinders Lane, CBD cherrybar.com.au Corner Hotel 57 Swan Street, Richmond cornerhotel.com Eden Bar and Nightclub 1/163 Russell Street, CBD edenbar.com.au Esplanade Hotel 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda espy.com.au Northcote Social Club 301 High Street, Northcote northcotesocialclub.com Palace Theatre 20-30 Bourke St, CBD palace.com.au Shamiana 420 Lonsdale St, CBD shamiana.com.au Star Bar 160 Clarendon Street starbarhotel.com.au

ADELAIDE The Apple Bar 5-9 Synagogue Pl, CBD theapplebar.com.au Earl of Leicester Hotel 85 Leicester Street, Parkside earl.com.au Electric Circus 17 Crippen Place, CBD crippenplace.com

Pig ‘N’ Whistle Riverside 123 Eagle Street, CBD pignwhistle.com.au The Exchange Hotel 131 Edward St, CBD theexchange.com.au The Fringe Bar Cnr Ann St & Constance St, Fortitude Valley fringebar.com.au

Grace Emily Hotel 232 Waymouth St, CBD yourbars.com.au

The Met Nightclub 56a/256 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley themet.com.au

The Promethean 116 Grote St, CBD theprom.com.au

Toro Bar 416 Milton Rd, Auchenflower facebook.com

PERTH The Clink 14-16 South Terrace, Fremantle theclink.com.au Subiaco Hotel 465 Hay Street, Subiaco subiacohotel.com.au The Shed 69-71 Aberdeen St, Northbr. the-shed.com.au

The Gin Mill 173 High St, Prahran theginmillprahran.com

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

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

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

The Night Owl 35 Elizabeth Street, CBD facebook.com

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BRISBANE

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

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

Super Whatnot 48 Burnett Lane superwhatnot.com

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

CAIRNS

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

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

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

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

Ba8 Lounge Bar Shangri-La Hotel, The Pier at the Marina, Pier Point ba8.com.au

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

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

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

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

Dunwoody’s Tavern 317 Sheridan St, North Cairns dunwoodys.com.au

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

Brutale 18 Corrs Lane, CBD brutale.com.au

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

Iceworks 157 Given Terrace, Paddington iceworks.com.au

Salt House 6/2 Pier Point Rd, CBD salthouse.com.au

ASIAN BEERS COMING OUT YOUR EARS Zhou Zhou is a hot new drinking den on Melbourne’s Chapel Street. Its interior is pretty rad and takes inspiration from 1930’s Shanghai. But let’s get to the pint, I mean point, shall we... Zhou Zhou boasts more than 50 Asian beers and lagers. Yes please! 455 Chapel Street, South Yarra, Melbourne facebook.com.au/zhouzhoubar

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CHIEF & FRIENDS PRESENT

Q U E E N ’ S B I R T H D AY E V E SUN 8 JUNE 9PM–3AM F R E E R O YA L B B Q 5 P M - 7 P M

DOWNSTAIRS: HIP HOP PARTY MATT CANT D’FRO HIJACK

Cnr Chapel St & High St Windsor

UPSTAIRS: HOUSE MUSIC ALL NIGHT LONG HEY SAM CLIPPING CHIEF

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The Woolshed 24 Shields Street, CBD thewoolshed.com.au

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

Vibe Bar and Lounge 39-49 Lake St. CBD vibebarcairns.com pub

Hamilton Hotel 442 Kingsford Smith Dve, Ham hamiltonhotel.com.au

HOBART Bar Celona 23 Salamanca Sq, CBD barcelonahobart.com Raincheck Lounge 392-394 Elizabeth St, North Hobart rainchecklounge.com.au Republic Bar & Cafe 299 Elizabeth St, North Hobart republicbar.com Shipwrights Arms 29 Trumpeter St, Battery Point shipwrightarms.com.au The Duke 192 Macquarie Street CBD theduke.com.au

NEWCASTLE

Hamilton Station Hotel 2-6 Beaumont St, Islington hamiltonstation.com.au Hotel Delany 134 Darby St, CBD hoteldelany.com Kent Hotel 59-61 Beaumont St, Hamilton thekenthotel.com.au King Street Hotel 15 Steel St, Newcastle West kingstreethotel.com.au Lass O’Gowrie 14 Railway St, Wickham lassogowriehotel.com.au Mary Ellen Hotel 57 Railway St, Mereweather maryellenhotel.com.au Oriental Hotel 53 Bull St, Cooks Hill facebook.com/theorihotel

Albion Hotel 72 Hannell St, Wickham thealbion.com.au

Premier Hotel 1 Brunker Rd, Broadmeadow hotelpremier.com.au

Bar Petite 5 King St, CBD barpetite.com.au

Royal Inn Hotel Waratah 61/69 Station St, Waratah truelocal.com.au

Burwood Inn Hotel 77 Berner Street, Merewether theburwood.com.au

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

Cambridge Hotel 789 Hunter St, CBD yourcambridge.com

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

The Northern Star 112 Beaumont St, Hamilton northernstarhotel.com.au Wickham Park Hotel 61 Maitland Rd, Islington thewicko.com.au

BYRON BAY Beach Hotel Bay St beachhotel.com.au Byron Bay Brewery 1 Skinners Shoot Road byronbaybrewery.com.au Cheeky Monkey’s 115 Jonson St cheekymonkeys.com.au La La Land Level 1/6 Lawson St lalalandbyronbay.com.au The Northern 35-43 Jonson St thenorthern.com.au

ICBM Bar 50 Northbourne Ave icbmbar.com Mooseheads 105 London Circuit mooseheads.com.au P.J O’Reilly’s 52 Alinga St pjoreillys.com.au Transit Bar 7 Akuna St transitbar.com.au

WOLLONGONG Alibi 76 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au Castros 5 Victoria Street facebook.com/castros Glasshouse Nightclub 90 Crown Street facebook.com/ sucasawollongong

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DARWIN Ducks Nuts 76 Mitchell St, CBD ducksnuts.com.au Squires Tavern 3 Edmunds St, CBD squirestavern.com.au Shenannigans 69 Mitchell St, CBD shenannigans.com.au The Deck Bar 22 Mitchell St, CBD thedeckbar.com.au The Tap Bar 58 Mitchell St, CBD thetap.com.au

ALICE SPRINGS Bojangles Saloon 80 Todd St yourbars.com.au Chifley Alice Springs Resort 34 Stott Tce chifleyhotels.com.au

Grand Hotel 234 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Firkin & Hound 21 Hartely St yourbars.com.au

Harp Hotel 124 Corrimal Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

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

Ivory Nightclub 77 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

The Juicy Rump @ Lasseters 93 Barret Dr, Desert Springs lasseters.com.au

Academy Club 15 Bunda St academyclub.com.au

OneFiveOne 150 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

The Rock Bar 78 Todd St therockbar.com.au

Cube Nightclub 33 Petrie Plaza cubenightclub.com.au

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

Todd Tavern 1 Todd St toddtavern.com.au

Treehouse on Belongil 25 Childe St treehouseonbelongil.com Woody’s Surf Shack 90-96 Jonson St woodysbyronbay.com

CANBERRA

BEACH HOTEL BYRON If you found yourself with only half an hour to experience Byron Bay life, one drink at the Beach Hotel would give you a taste of everything the seaside town has to offer. The huge beer garden and open-air bistro sits at the top of the town’s main street overlooking Main Beach. Done. 4-10 Bay Street, Bryon Bay beachhotel.com.au

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AUCKLAND Albion Hotel 119 Hobson St albionhotel.co.nz Brew on Quay 102 Quay St brewonquay.co.nz Bluestone Room 9-11 Durham Lan thebluestoneroom.co.za Cassette 9 9 Vulcan Ln cassettenine.com Cavalier Tavern 68 College Hill thecavalier.co.nz Currach Irish Pub 78 Blackwell Dr currachirishpub.co.nz De Fontein 77 Tamaki Dr, Mission Bay defontein.co.nz Doolan Brothers 414 Khyber Pass Rd, Newmarket doolanbrothers.co.nz Father Ted’s 1 Wellesley St W fatherteds.co.nz Fort Street Union 16 Fort St fortstreetunion.co.nz Gables Speights Ale House 248 Jervois Rd, Herne Bay gablesspeightsalehouse.co.nz Galbraith’s Alehouse 2 Mt Eden Rd, Grafton alehouse.co.nz Garrison Public House 61/286 Mt Wellington Hwy, Mt Wellington South garrisonpub.co.nz La Zeppa Kitchen 33 Drake St, Freemans Bay lazeppa.co.nz

Tainui Tavern 33 Morrin Rd menumania.co.nz

Foundation Bar Maahanga Dr, Te Awa foundationbar.co.nz

thepovertybayclub.co.nz The Jolly Stockman 3 Saleyards Rd

CHRISTCHURCH

The Bank Bar & Brasserie Cnr Victoria St & Hood St thebank.co.nz

The Zookeeper’s Son 715 Mt Albert Rd zookeepersson.co.nz

Bealey’s Speight’s Ale House 263 Bealey Ave bealeysalehouse.co.nz

The Cook 7 Cook St, Hamilton East thecook.net.nz

Verve Cafe & Bar

Three Lamps 1-3 St Marys Rd, St Marys Bay threelamps.co.nz

Bailies Bar 1066 Colombo St, St Albans bailiesbar.co.nz

Speights Ale House 30 Liverpool St speights-hamilton.co.nz

4.20 bar 373 Karangahape Rd 420.co.nz

Becks Southern Alehouse 155 Colombo St beckssouthernalehouse.co.nz

Wonder Horse 236 Victoria St wonderhorse.co.nz

The Fox 85/87 Customs St W thefox.co.nz

WELLINGTON Arbitrageur Wine Room 125 Featherston St arbitrageur.co.nz Bangalore Polo Club 63 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro bangalorepoloclub.co.nz Bodega 101 Ghuznee St bodega.co.nz Four Kings Sports Bar 7-11 Dixon St fourkings.co.nz Havana Coffee Works 163 Tory St, Te Aro havana..co.nz Hawthorn Lounge 82 Tory St, Te Aro hawthornlounge.co.nz J J Murphy & Co 119 Cuba St, Te Aro jjmurphy.co.nz Mac’s Brewbar 4 Taranaki St thebrewerybar.co.nz Matterhorn 106 Cuba St, Te Aro matterhorn.co.nz MIghty Mighty 104 Cuba St, Te Aro mightymighty.co.nz

The Lumsden 444/448 Khyber Pass Rd, Newmarket thelumsden.co.nz

Molly Malones 134 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro mollymalones.co.nz

Malt Bar 442 Richmond Rd maltbar.co.nz

San Francisco Bath House 171 Cuba St, Te Aro sfbh.co.nz

Normanby Hotel 37 Normandy Rd, Mt Eden thenormanbyhotel.co.nz

Southern Cross Garden Bar 39 Abel Smith St, Te Aro thecross.co.nz

Parnell Bar & Grill 196 Parnell Rd, Parnell parnellbarandgrill.co.nz

Sprig & Fern 342 Tinakori Rd sprigandferntaverns.co.nz

BACK IN BLACK

The Welsh Dragon Bar 10/12 Cambridge Terrace, Mt Victoria welshdragonbar.co.nz

The Brewers Arms 177 Papanui Rd, Merivale thebrewersarms.co.nz Burgers & Beers Inc 355 Colombo St, Sydenham burgersandbeersinc.co.nz Calendar Girls 196 Hereford St calendargirls.co.nz Darkroom 336 St Asaph St darkroombar.co.nz Empire Hotel Lyttelton 9 London St, Lyttelton empirelyttelton.co.nz Fox & Ferret Palms Palms Shopping Centre, 1 New Brighton Rd, Shirley foxpalms.co.nz Garden Hotel Bar 110 Marshland Rd, Shirley

gardenhotel.co.nz Pegasus Arms 14 Oxford Terrace pegasus-arms.com Tequila Mockingbird 98 Victoria St tequilamockingbird.co.nz The Brewery 3 Garlands Rd, Woolston casselsbrewery.co.nz The Twisted Hop Pub 616 Ferry Rd thetwistedhop.co.nz Monteiths Brewery Bar 53 Merrin St mbbmerrinst.co.nz No. 4 Bar 4 Mansfield Ave, St Albans no4bar.co.nz

HAMILTON Axces Bar 28 Alexandra St yellow.co.nz

Queens Ferry Hotel 12 Vulcan Ln queensferryhotel.co.nz

The Apartment 25 Allen St, Te Aro theapartment.co.nz

Bar 101 118 Victoria St bar101.co.nz

Shakespeare Brewery 61 Albert St shakespearehotel.co.nz

The Establishment Cnr of Courtenay Pl and Blair St theestablishment.co.nz

Cock & Bull 1 Cnr Maui & Church St, Pukete cockandbull.co.nz

Spitting Feathers 16 Wyndham St spittingfeathers.co.nz

The Green Man 25 Victoria St thegreenmanpub.co.nz

CBD Corner Pub 26 Hood St cbdpub.co.nz

Sprig & Fern 2 Drake St, Freemans Bay sprigandferntaverns.co.nz

The Malt House 48 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro themalthouse.co.nz

Easy Tiger Cocktail Bar 186 Victoria St easytigerbar.co.nz

WHANGAREI

yellow.co.nz

121 Gladstone Rd

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NAPIER Guffle Bar 29A Hastings St, Napier South

guffle.co.nz The Bank Sports Lounge

Dickens Inn 71 Cameron St, Vinetown dickensinn.co.nz

106 Hastings St

Killer Prawn 26-28 Bank St killerprawn.co.nz

The Dutch at The Bluewater

McCool’s 14 Rust Ave mccools.co.nz pub McMorrisseys Irish Pub 7 Vine St, Vinetown mcmorrisseys.co.nz

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10 W Quay, Ahuriri

thedutch.co.nz The Gintrap Restaurant & Bar 64 W Quay, Ahuriri

gintrap.co.nz The Rose Irish Pub

Parua Bay Tavern 1034 Whangarei Heads Rd, Parua Bay paruabaytavern.co.nz

64 Hastings St

Split Bar Rathbone St splitrestaurant.co.nz s

62 W Quay, Ahuriri

The Old Stone Butter Factory 8 Butter Factory Lane butterfactory.co.nz

DUNEDIN Angus Restaurant & Bar 7 St Andrew St angusdunedin.co.nz Alibi Bar 1 Princes St alibibar.co.nz Captain Cook Tavern 354 Great King St, N Dunedin thecaptaincook.co.nz Luna Bar 314 Highgate Roslyn lunaroslyn.co.nz Manny’s Level 1/91 St Andrew St mannysbar.co.nz Stilettos Revue Bar 319 Princes St stilettos.co.nz

GISBORNE Aladdin Bar/First Light Aikido 63 Peel St firstlighttaikido.net Lonestar Restaurant & Bar 60 The Esplanade, Inner Kaiti lonestar.co.nz Soho 2 Crawford Rd, Inner Kaiti sohobar.co.nz The Poverty Bay Club 57/65 Customhouse St

masonic.co.nz The Thirsty Whale

thethirstywhale.co.nz

PLYMOUTH Crowded House Bar 93-99 Devon St E

crowdedhouse.co.nz Gusto Restaurant, Cafe & Bar Ocean View Parade

gustotaranaki.conz Peggy Gordon’s Celtic Bar 58 Egmont St

peggygordons.com The Mayfair 69 Devon St W

themayfair.co.nz West Bar & Cafe 41 Tukapa St, Westown

westbar.co.nz

TAURANGA Imbibe Bar & Restaurant 19 Girven Rd

facebook.com Inbargo Bar & Bistro 4 Palmer Pl, Te Puke

inbargobarandbistro.co.nz Major Toms Bar 297 Maunganui Rd, Mt Maunganui

majortomsbar.com

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GAME ON Watch the world come to life as ultimate football fever hits.

It’s FIFA World Cup time...

WORDS IAN ARMITAGE

When the 2014 FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 12 (well, it’ll be June 13 for us), it’s not just the competition on the pitch we have to look forward to – it’s the extended licenses for pubs and clubs and the parties that come with it. Bars will be opening early (from around 6am), there will be hostel parties galore and there may well be the odd street party. If you are lucky enough to be going out to Brazil, the party capital of the world, then you are in for a real treat.

In case you don’t know, the World Cup rolls around every four years and everybody gets excited about it. Even those who don’t watch footie. Add Brazil into the equation and it gets that much more exciting. Unsurprisingly, the hosts are huge favourites heading into the tournament, while the likes of world champs Spain, Germany and Argentina will also fancy their chances.

One thing worth remembering is that all four World Cups held in South America have produced winners from the continent – 1930 (Uruguay), 1950 (Brazil), 1962 (Chile) and 1978 (Argentina) – suggesting the European nations have little chance of success.

The group of death, the one that gives the managers nightmares, has been accepted as Group B – the Socceroo’s group. They’ll line up against the Netherlands, Chile and Spain.

Group D – Uruguay, Costa Rica, England and Italy – is equally grey-inducing though, as is Group G featuring Germany, Portugal, Ghana and USA. One of the storylines to look for is how the brilliant Lionel Messi will do after a disappointing first World Cup outing in South Africa four years ago and a disappointing season with Barcelona – well, by his own standards anyway (with 41 goals in 44 games, if it was anybody else you’d be raving about 2013/14). The miniature maestro has won everything with his club – six La Liga titles, three Champions Leagues and two World Club

cups – and is regarded as one of the best players to have ever played the game. But to be the absolute best, he’ll have to win a World Cup, matching a feat achieved by both the great Maradona and Pele, the two names that always pop up when discussing the ‘best player ever’.

At 26 years old, this summer could define Messi, but can he match the performances of El Diego at Mexico ’86? With the likes of Angel di Maria, Sergio Aguero and Gonzalo Higuain alongside him, he might not need to.

Whatever happens on the pitch, you don’t need to be a huge football fan to get into the swing of things. Read on for the inside story of your country’s chances, the ones to watch and our top choices of pubs, bars and clubs in Oz and New Zealand to watch them in...

LET THE GAMES BEGIN Who’ll win the World Cup? That’s the age-old question isn’t it? Of course there are the holders Spain, World Cup wizards Germany and the favourites Brazil, but it could be one of several sides – France, Holland, Italy, Argentina, and, dare we say England.

What is for sure is that we’ll enjoy seeing who comes out on top...

Australia PEDIGREE: Australia have only played at three World Cup finals (1974, 2006 and 2010) and crashed out at the group stages twice – not much to write home about – but a World Cup is always better with them involved, least not because of the fantastic support they get and the effort they put in on the field.

ROUTE TO BRAZIL: Easy sounds harsh, but it was – the opposition they faced in qualifying is hardly worth a mention. They finished the Asian qualifying campaign second in Group B behind Japan but in front of Jordan, Oman and Iraq. ››

Ca hil

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WORLDCUPSPECIAL HOW THEY’LL FARE: Do the Aussies have a chance? In a group with Chile, Spain and Netherlands? No. But this is football. Anything can happen. Ah who are we trying to kid?

Sorry Aussie friends, Australia have no chance. NONE. Zilch.

Nada. They’ll probably finish bottom of their group. Ah well, we’re sure they’ll get over it.

STAR MAN: Tim Cahill. We hope the old dog will pull out a few tricks. He’ll need to.

Odds: 500/1

England PEDIGREE: Inventors of the game and too pig-headed to take part in early World Cups believing it was beneath them, we’re talking about England, and one shining moment on home soil in 1966 looms large over a nation with a proud footballing heritage and ‘the best’ domestic league in the world.

Quarter finals in the last three tournaments show where England will likely finish.

ROUTE TO BRAZIL: Anyone would think that qualifying from a European group is easy – it isn’t – but England were one of several sides that did so without losing a game.

That said, they toiled through their group with one more point than second-placed Ukraine.

HOW THEY’LL FARE: The problem with England is always the same: trying to fit square pegs in round holes. The golden generation has been and gone and Roy Hodgson has to be brave and ambitious to lead them to glory. And here’s the ‘but’ – mundane tactics (sorry Roy). England is blessed with some good players and a lot of pace but, with the conservative Hodgson in charge, you fear the players will never be allowed to express themselves. Another predictable summer; they’ll go out at the group stages.

STAR MAN: Wayne Rooney, although has never scored a World Cup goal. That will have to change if England stands any chance.

Odds: 28/1

R oo n ey

Brazil PEDIGREE: Brazil is the World Cup. They’re the only country to have played in every edition and have won more than any other nation (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002). In recent tournaments they have failed to deliver, however.

ROUTE TO BRAZIL: As hosts they qualified automatically.

HOW THEY’LL FARE: Make no mistake, Brazil have to win this, and they expect to.

STAR MAN: Some have been critical of the current squad, believing the quality we’ve seen at previous World Cups just isn’t there. Neymar is undoubtedly the star man and when he plays well, his teammates do too. They thrashed Spain in the 20

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Confederations Cup proving that, while they might not be a vintage year, they are potential world beaters.

Odds: 3/1

Germany PEDIGREE: Germans. They love the World Cup don’t they?

And it loves them back, having won it three times in total – a feat eclipsed by just Brazil (five) and Italy (four). The artist formerly known as West Germany has played in 18 World Cups, reaching seven finals and 12 semi-finals. Pretty good, huh?

ROUTE TO BRAZIL: The Germans went the whole qualifying campaign unbeaten with an impressive nine wins from 10, one draw, 28 points from a possible 30 and scoring 36 goals.

HOW THEY’LL FARE: The Germans are strong and have a squad that oozes class. In players such as Arsenal’s Mesut Özi, World Cup veteran Bastian Schweinsteiger, and talents such as Mario Gotze and Toni Kroos, they have a depth to their midfield that even Spain are envious of. They should reach the semi-finals. They could even win it.

STAR MAN: Philipp Lahm. The Bayern man is as steady as they come and can always be relied upon.

Odds: 11/2

Belgium PEDIGREE: They’ve been out in the World Cup wilderness for some years now but they’re back and Belgium have a good history in the tournament having qualified for six straight World Cup Finals between 1982 and 2002 – famously being denied a perfectly good goal from now manager Marc Wilmots in the round of 16 that saw them crash out against eventual winners Brazil.

ROUTE TO BRAZIL: They’re most people’s dark horses and reached the finals undefeated in qualifying. In 10 games they conceded just four goals, seeing off the likes of Croatia and Serbia – not easy.

HOW THEY’LL FARE: No other country can boast anywhere near as much young talent (especially since Manchester United’s Adnan Januzaj, one of the hottest properties in European football, finally decided he was Belgian – being Brussels born). They can call on the likes of Eden Hazard, Vincent Kompany and Romelu Lukaku. Amazing right? The catch? A lack of experience. None of the players, as talented as they are, have played at a World Cup before.

They’ll probably reach the quarter finals.

STAR MAN: Has to be Chelsea’s Hazard (although Jose Mourinho might disagree). There isn’t much he can’t do with a football and he is undoubtedly the one Belgian that can unlock any defence. He has had a brilliant season despite Chelsea falling short on all fronts.

Odds: 20/1

France PEDIGREE: Prior to hosting the World Cup in 1998, France had a reputation as nearly men, regularly coming up short.

Then came Zinedine Zidane, Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira, Bixente Lizarazu, David Trezegue, Lillian Thuram et al, and France took the world by storm. That is until Zizu took

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them to the final in 2006, was sent off for that head butt and subsequently retired. Since then it has been pretty embarrassing, especially in South Africa where they finished bottom of Group A with just a point as Nicolas Anelka was sent home after verbally abusing coach Raymond Domenec. His teammates, including captain Patrice Evra, went on strike, prompting a government inquiry (who said it’s just a game?).

ROUTE TO BRAZIL: They needed a playoff to get on the plane to Brazil after finishing second in their group behind Spain, which was always likely from the moment the groups were drawn to be fair. They beat Ukraine 3-0 at home after losing the first leg 2-0 to secure passage to their 10th major tournament in a row.

HOW THEY’LL FARE: Coach Didier Deschamps lifted the cup as a player in ’98. An accomplished coach, he’ll need consistent performances from his stars if Les Blue are going to do anything in Brazil, but you just feel they’ll fall apart if things aren’t going well. Group stage exit seems likely.

STAR MAN: Franck Ribery is the undoubted star of the show. He has terrorised the best defenses in Europe for a decade and is currently the world’s third best player if you use the Ballon d’Or as a barometer.

Odds: 22/1

Italy PEDIGREE: Italy is a World Cup big dog having won it four times, most recently in 2006, and they’ve been semi-finalists in six of the last 11 World Cups. That belies a team that is massively unpredictable – crashing out at the group stage in appalling fashion last time out.

ROUTE TO BRAZIL: It was a routine qualification from a group in which there was only ever going to be one winner.

HOW THEY’LL FARE: Italy have moved on from the players that won in 2006 – although amazingly some survive (notably Buffon in goal) – and have been bringing in young talent such as Marco Verratti and Lorenzo Insigne, who both starred in the European Under-21 Championship in 2013. They’re happy to try to cancel out teams and have quality in attack to counter.

They finished as runners-up in Euro 2012 to Spain so can’t be overlooked.

STAR MAN: Andrea Pirlo.

His beard is a thing of beauty just like his passing and free kicks.

A fine player.

Odds: 25/1

Spain PEDIGREE: Spain are defending champions and have a golden generation of players – need we say more?

Yes actually. Other than recent successes – wins at Euro 2008 and 2012 and the 2010 World Cup win – they have had spectacular failures when it comes to world domination.

ROUTE TO BRAZIL: In a group where just France represented a challenge, they qualified without losing: winning six and drawing two. The worry would be that in those eight games they only scored 14 – that’s 1.75 goals per game (Germany’s was 3.6 and Holland’s 3.4).

HOW THEY’LL FARE: They have a very real chance of joining Brazil and Italy as consecutive winners. They love possession football and are the masters of it, with a midfield most can only dream about. But possession doesn’t win games – goals do, as Brazil proved when they thrashed them in the Confederations Cup final.

STAR MAN: If they are to win it they’ll need Diego Costa to bag lots of goals, but at the time of press he is an injury doubt. Uh oh....

Odds: 13/2

Holland PEDIGREE: The best team never to win a World Cup and the masters of attacking football, Holland’s interchanging total football has completely transformed the modern game. They lost the final in 2010 to Spain, although their negative tactics (and a nasty Nigel de Jong challenge) put a dampener on the whole affair.

ROUTE TO BRAZIL: New Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal infamously oversaw the failed Dutch qualification for the 2002 World Cup, but in his second stint he has brought back the width and high pressing the Dutch are known for and it saw them qualify with ease.

HOW THEY’LL FARE: Some teams simply don’t come together in time for a World Cup, and Holland probably fall into this category. It is a very young side playing alongside the diminishing old guard. They should reach the quarter finals.

STAR MAN: Robin Van Persie. An absolute ninja in front of goal, when he isn’t injured.

Odds: 30/1 TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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WORLDCUPSPECIAL Argentina PEDIGREE: Argentina has won the World Cup twice (1978 and 1984) and finished runners up twice (1930 and 1990).

One thing is always certain when they’re at a World Cup: there will be fireworks. Take 1994 as an example and one Diego Maradona. His infamous wild-eyed goal celebration after scoring in the opening match against Greece is a footballing image that haunts many. The iconic number 10 was banished from the World Cup days later after failing a drugs test. Shocker.

ROUTE TO BRAZIL: With Brazil excluded from qualifying, Argentina finished at the top of the pile of the CONMEBOL qualifying stage, which is still impressive even minus their main rivals.

HOW THEY’LL FARE: They have the potential to go all the way and what better way to upset your neighbours and old foes than winning a tournament they are desperate to win?

And why can’t they? Messi, Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Angel di Maria are just a few reasons why the world should fear the Albiceleste.

STAR MAN: Leo Messi. He is arguably the best footballer of this generation and indeed of any generation. He has the skill of Maradona and the goals of Pele. At just 26 he has achieved pretty much everything – everything but a winning a World Cup. Odds: 9/2

e rs i e Va n P

Best of the rest...

After years of World Cup failure, Ivory Coast qualified in 2006, 2010 and again this year. The pace and power they have in their side, despite the advancing years of many of its stars, mean they’re more than a match for anyone. Their key man is Manchester City’s Yaya Toure, who’ll go into the World Cup finals with relatively fresh legs after recovering from a series of niggling injuries picked up as the English Premier League season drew to a close. Uruguay is another team with dark horse potential – EPL superstar Luis Suarez (if he makes it) and PSG’s Edinson Cavani mean that you overlook the country of just 3.3 million at your peril.

Odds: 125/1 & 30/1

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TNT TIPPING WINNERS: Brazil will be crowned champions on July 13, 2014. It’ll be their sixth World Cup crown, but the team they’ll beat will make the win even sweeter – archnemesis Argentina.

SECOND PLACE: Argentina. The “Gauchos” will fall just short because of their leaky defence.

THIRD PLACE: Spain. Spain boasts incredible midfield talent and will pass most sides off the pitch. The trouble is, as Guardiola’s Bayern provided in this season’s Champions League, possession doesn’t win games.

Goals do.

FOURTH PLACE: Germany. The Germans are always

good at World Cups but they’ll run out

of steam by the time they reach the semi-finals.

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N IO T C A E H T H C T A W O T E R WHE Soak up the atmosphere in a great British-style boozer, a slick sports bar, or a trendy brewery. Just make sure you’ve got a good view of the TV and a beer in your hand, and you’re sorted.

This is a really popular joint. The Guinness here is always good and so is the craic. It’s brimming full with Irish charm, and an Irish coffee might be just the thing you need to get you fired up for the earlier kick-offs.

24/7 SPORTS BAR Level 1, Casino, The Star, 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont, Sydney 02 9777 9000 star.com.au What’s happening There’ll be pre-game entertainment, a huge stadium atmosphere and plenty of food and drinks to fuel your football fever.

Get off your arse because...If you’re in Sydney, it’s the place to go for all things sports-related. With three mega screens and more than 50 LCD TVs, you’ll never miss a kick.

CHEERS 561 George Street, Sydney 02 9261 8313 Cheersbar.com.au What’s happening Cheers is known as the famous bar where everybody knows your name. While this isn’t that Cheers, this is one of the best sports bars we’ve ever been to, anywhere in the world. It’s a fantastic place to go for your footy fix (and we don’t mean Aussie rules), especially with the early starts.

Get off your arse because...Not only is it a great place to watch sport, any sport, but the food is great and reasonably priced. It has a very British feel about the place and some good tap beers.

SCRUFFY MURPHY’S 43-49 Goulburn Street, Sydney 02 9211 2002 scruffymurphys. com.au What’s happening Scruffy Murphy’s is a hugely popular Irish bar located right in the heart of Sydney’s backpacker area.

But beware; it’s a bit of a sausage fest.

Get off your arse because...

THE PORTLAND HOTEL 115 Russell Street, Melbourne 03 9810 0064 portlandhotel.com.au What’s happening The Portland Hotel has combined a pub and a brewery and, to our knowledge at least, is the only brewery in the heart of the Melbourne CBD. The mix of bar, brewery and restaurant makes it very different to what you’ll get from a traditional sports bar experience. i.e. the beer won’t be warm and the food will be pricier but tastier.

Get off your arse because...This is a popular sports pub and the perfect place to cheer on your country while you enjoy some delicious grub and watch the game on the big screens. If you’re Dutch, we highly recommend it.

During Holland games the venue will be orange and the Heineken and Bitterballen will flow.

THE IMPERIAL 2/8 Bourke Street, Melbourne 03 9810 0062

Bourkestreetimperial.com

What’s happening The Imperial Hotel is Melbourne’s third oldest pub and a great watering hole at the Spring Street end of Bourke Street in the city’s CBD. Get off your arse because...During the World Cup it’ll be open 24 hours daily and will show every match live and loud on the big screens. They’ll be serving breakfast from 6am and food all night, plus you can also enjoy $20 Bud buckets exclusively for the World Cup. Can’t argue with that.

CARBON BAR Burswood Entertainment Complex/Bolton Ave, Burswood 08 9362 7551 crownperth.com.au What’s happening Experience the highs, lows and the adrenalin-dropping reality of sport played out in super-size on the cinema-sized screen and 16 high-definition plasma screens around the bar.

Get off your arse because...

Carbon Bar will show pretty much any sport – within reason – so you won’t have to go to another bar and beg to get the football shown on the big screen.

For those of us who remember having to do that back home, this is a massive plus!

THE PADDINGTON 117 St George’s Bay Road, Auckland 09 309 3586 Thepaddington.co.nz What’s happening This place is right near the Vector Arena and is great for watching live sports because it’s always pumping. Expect a great atmosphere.

Get off your arse because...

They have an extensive range of NZ and imported beers and many of NZ and Australia’s best wines. You definitely won’t go thirsty.

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CHATROOM

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RÜFÜS

Up-and-coming indie dance band RÜFÜS are readying themselves for an Aussie tour, and if their debut album, ATLAS, is anything to go by, it’s going to be a belter INTERVIEW IAN ARMITAGE

we really vibed on everything we heard there, and it felt like a very inspiring space to write and record in. We’re not sure what you can expect but we’re obviously looking to push ourselves as writers and producers.

I read your band name came from a three-legged dog. Is that true? And what happened to that dog?

It ran away one day and never came back. That was the inspiration for ‘We Left’, the first track we wrote.

Have people ever confused you with Rufus, the funk band that launched Chaka Khan?

Not that we’re aware of but I could understand the confusion!

[Caption]

ARIA-nominated (it’s the Aussie Brits) RÜFÜS have begun a huge national tour, which will see them hit up capital cities as well as make some regional stops on the month-and-a-half run. We got a few minutes with the guys before they set off on the road...

This year has been brilliant one for you, so far. Loving life?

2014 has been amazing. So far we’ve been able to travel the world, get inspired, write music and play to a bunch of new audiences. Highlights have definitely been the musical zoo that was SXSW and a bunch of really memorable shows in Canada, New York, LA and London.

What do you put your success down to?

We’re very hard working people. But we’re also lucky and we’re aware of that. So maybe it’s some vague combination of both?!

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Does touring agree with you? Or do you tend to get on each others’ nerves?

We’re a pretty chilled cross section of people so no one really gets too irritable or on each others’ backs. That said, in any small group of people that are working together closely for a long period of time, you need to be able to allow some space which I feel we’ve managed to do.

It will be the last time you tour your hugely popular debut album ATLAS – will it be a bit emotional?

I guess so, it’s kind of a nice way of saying thank you to all our fans for supporting the album and creating that kind of reception that we never expected before releasing it.

After that you’re planning to write and record new stuff. That’ll happen in Germany, right? Why Germany? And what can we expect from you?

We chose Germany, specifically Berlin, because

For those who might not have heard of RÜFÜS, describe your sound...

I guess our sound is just a reflection of all the music that we love: Booka Shade, Trentemøller, Royksöpp, Caribou, Mujuice.

Who has inspired your music?

Bill Murray. Haha.

What do you like to listen to?

Ludovico Einaudi, Hans Zimmer, John Williams.

Are there any new bands or artists out there that have you excited?

Loving the new Jamie XX. The new Leon Vynehall mini LP is wicked too. Also Boot Action, Jacques Green, Justin Jay, Chrome Sparks and Lone.

What do you have planned for the rest of the year, other than recording new stuff – some time away maybe?

We’re looking to try to escape on a little personal holiday just before we head to Berlin. It will be our only time off touring or writing for basically the whole year, so we’re definitely looking to capitalise on it!

RÜFÜS are touring Australia until Jun 21 facebook.com/rufussounds

Photos: Facebook

Things are about to get better, surely, as you set off on the Oz leg of the ‘World within Worlds’ tour... Tell us more about it...

After touring the US/UK for the last two months and playing smaller rooms, we’re ridiculously excited to come back for this Aussie tour.

We’re playing some of our favourite venues and travelling with the visual show that we’d only dreamed of three years earlier. It’s really cool to be able to extend upon what we’re doing musically with something arresting and intriguing visually.

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Luke Shaw

ENGLAND OPT FOR YOUNG ’UNS FOOTBALL

We don’t think England have entered a World Cup with expectations this low since 1990. That tournament worked out well, and while Roy Hodgson will want the same, it might be too much for his young charges.

But with zero pressure comes maximum freedom, and young legs bring a lot of extra energy – important in such altitude. There are a few veterans – Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney, James Milner, Glen Johnson, Joe Hart, Frank Lampard – surviving from the 2010 World Cup, which happened to be England’s oldest ever World Cup squad, but by contrast this is a young squad, with an average age of 26 – down from 28.7. With the likes of Ashley Cole looking on from home, meet some of the youngsters whose names we’ll be hearing plenty more of in the future.

RAHEEM STERLING The 19-year-old earned a place in England’s 23-man squad after a breakthrough season with Liverpool, establishing himself as a key part of Brendan Rodgers’ side which came up just short in the EPL title race. He scored 10 goals for the Reds this season and England fans will hope for some good performances from the talented winger.

JACK WILSHERE At 22, Wilshere is something of an old man in footie terms, and far from the youngest member of a rookie squad. His has been an injury-plagued season, but back to full fitness and with an FA Cup winner’s medal around his neck, the Arsenal man is raring to go in Brazil.

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Wayne Rooney, 28, has never scored a World Cup goal, and he’ll be hoping to put that right when England kick off against Italy on June 15. He will be determined to prove himself after two indifferent campaigns in 2006 and 2010, with the eyes of the nation, if not the world, completely focused on him. But is he past his best? He isn’t 18 anymore...

LUKE SHAW Southampton’s 18-year-old fullback’s inclusion was controversial, not because he isn’t good enough, but because it came at the expense of the experienced Ashley Cole. He can’t drive, has never lived alone and his first World Cup memory is 2010.

ALEX OXLADE-CAMBERLAIN Another boy from the Saints academy, the Ox is determined to continue his high at the World Cup after a topsy-turvy club campaign with Arsenal. The 20-year-old has 14 caps but missed chunks of the end of the season with injury – sitting out of his team’s FA Cup win over Hull.

ROSS BARKLEY He is the man all England fans wanted to see unleashed in Brazil. The skillful 20-year-old has experienced success with England at under 17 level winning the European Championships, and has been likened to Paul ‘Gazza’ Gasciogne.

As yet we are unsure if he is a crier.

UNDER THE PUMP There aren’t many head coaches headed to Brazil with an eye on the next major international tournament, but that’s what Roy Hodgson is doing.

England aren’t the longest odds to win in Brazil but he has left out the likes of 107-caps Ashley Cole in favour of young guns like Southampton’s Luke Shaw and Everton’s Ross Barkley to focus on the future. Captain Steven Gerrard was glad his manager went for youth, admitting it means he can conserve more energy. “The team is full of legs and energy, which is good for me,” the 34-year-old said.

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HIGHLIGHTS

PREVIEW

Lewis Hamilton

ENGLAND BRING THEIR LAMBS TO BE SLAUGHTERED IN NEW ZEALAND DOWN UNDER INTERNATIONALS RUGBY

England’s tour of New Zealand is being referred to as a ‘tour de farce’ with Stuart Lancaster’s side for the first Test missing an entire starting 15’s-worth from Premiership final sides Saracens and Northampton.

Add to that a hefty injury toll, with at least eight players in doubt, and those wearing the red rose will be well under strength when they take on the world’s best from June 7, with other Tests on June 14 and 21 – a tour match against the Crusaders will be played on June 17.

Lancaster has said there are no excuses

though, as the tour simply means he gets to blood a few extra faces ahead of the 2015 World Cup in England.

Australia is in a similar situation, but with a less esteemed opposition in France, who they host for the first time since 2009.

Ewen McKenzie’s side will miss fly-half Quade Cooper and includes four debutants in his forward pack.

Maybe the best contest of the southern hemisphere tours will be Wales in South Africa, also in June. Both sides are evenly matched but Wales might have the edge with Springbok captain Jean de Villiers missing with a knee injury.

Photos:Getty. Words: Michael Gadd and Ian Armitage

LET’S GET TRIVIAL | Scott’s numbers game With Tiger Woods out of action through injury, Adam Scott became the No.1 golfer in the world rankings by sitting on his butt last month. He’s the first Aussie to hold the place since Greg Norman in the ’90s, but with five guys within one ranking point of each other at the top, we can expect it to chop and change for a bit.

It’s much the same as 1997, when numero uno Norman was overtaken by Tiger Woods, who was replaced a week later by Ernie Els, before Norman took it back and lost it again to Woods.

Scott, the first Aussie No.1 since Norman, is among the favourites for the US Open this month – June 12-15 – which, with bigger tournaments worth more ranking points, will go a big way to deciding who really is golf’s top dog.

12-15 Golf: US Open 12 Super League: Leeds v Hudd’field 13 T20 Blast: Surrey v Sussex, Kia Oval 14 World Cup: Chile v Australia 14 Rugby: Wallabies v France 15 World Cup: England v Italy 17-21 Racing: Royal Ascot 17 Rugby: Crusaders v England 18 Rug League: State of Origin 2 19 World Cup: Australia v Netherlands 18 T20 Blast: Middlesex v Somerset, Oval 20 World Cup: Uruguay v England 21-23 F1: Austrian Grand Prix 20 Test crick: England v Sri Lanka 21 Rugby: Wallabies v France 21 Rugby: New Zealand v England 21 Rugby: South Africa v Wales 22 LV=CC: Surrey v Leicest. Oval 24 World Cup: Australia v Spain 24-Jul 7 Tennis: Wimbledon 25 World Cup: Costa Rica v England 26 T20 Blast: Middlesex v Glouc, Lord’s 27 T20 Blast: Surrey v Hampshire, Oval 27 Super League: Wigan v St Helens 28 LV=CC: Surrey v Hampshire, Oval 28 Rugby: South Africa v Scotland 28 Super Rug: Waratahs v Brumbies 29 World Cup: Group A winner v Group B second place, Group C winner v Group D second place 29 LV= CC: Middlesex v Northants, Lord’s 30 World Cup: Group B winner v Group A second place, Group D winner v Group C second place July 2 T20 Blast: Surrey v Kent, Oval July 5-6 World Cup quarter finals July 5-7 F1: British Grand Prix July 9-10 World Cup: Semi finals July 13 World Cup: Third/fourth place play-offs July 14 World Cup: Final TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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‘I’ll be ready’ Aussie fast bowler Doug Bollinger is making sure he is primed for when his next Test chance comes with Kent

Photos: Getty

WORDS MICHAEL GADD

Doug Bollinger may hate his nickname but ‘Doug the Rug’ is part of the furniture for Australian cricket. It may surprise many, though, that despite the high regard in which the big left-arm quick is held, he’s played just 12 Tests for his country.

A member of the squad for the 5-0 Ashes whitewash Down Under, Bollinger could only watch from the boundary as Michael Clarke’s preferred 11 went unchanged throughout the series.

But Dougie remains well and truly in the sights of the Aussie selectors. He was the immediate inclusion for the World Twenty20 in Bangladesh when Ashes destroyer Mitchell Johnson fell victim to an infected toe and was ruled out of the tournament, and was one of the top performers in a disappointing campaign.

Bollinger’s aim now is to be in the right nick at the right time when there’s next a sniff of an opportunity to play again in the creams and Baggy Green.

That fine-tuning is happening at the picturesque St Lawrence Ground in Kent.

“You never know, hopefully I’m still 28

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“

If I keep playing well and stay fit, you never know what can happen considered for all that,” says the modest New South Welshman whose last fivedayer was the ill-fated innings and 71run Ashes flogging in Adelaide in 2010.

“Hopefully being here and playing as much county cricket as I can before I go home or to Champions League can give me a bit of a leap for next year.

“It’s hard to pin-point what you’ve got to do and how you’ve got to perform to be picked, it’s just one of those things you can’t look into. If I get a chance I get a chance, but let me get through the UK summer and summer back home and give me a call this time next year.”

If we’re being blunt, one thing that would boost his chances to add to his 50 Test wickets would be Johnson not being available.

Selectors ahead of the Ashes made a massive call in picking Johnson over

”

Bollinger, with the mental and physical frailty of the former’s previous Test escapades fresh in the mind. Doug would have been the safe choice, a more reliable option than the erratic slinging of his tattooed fellow leftie.

But 37 wickets and the Player of the Series award validated their call.

“It’s just what happens,” says Bollinger. “Mitch picked himself up in a amazing way [from previous disappointments]. And what he did in the Ashes was fantastic, just good to watch. I was there for the Tests and it was impressive. Also, a lot of people forget Ryan Harris was bowling really fast and swinging it so...”

Add to that the third quick Peter Siddle charging in for long spells and spinner Nathan Lyon tying down his end, allowing Clarke to use Johnson in

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SPORTFOCUS

Happy days: Michael Clarke and Bollinger share a laugh while on duty for NSW snappy, brutal bursts – not to mention the team winning – it was a tough circle to infiltrate.

Still, even with his 37 scalps in five matches against England mending his stats from previous disasters, Johnson’s average, strike rate and economy rate still trail Bollinger’s.

Barring injury, both 32-yearolds will be in the touring parties for the triangular ODI series against South Africa and Zimbabwe in Harare in August and October’s T20, ODI and Test series against Pakistan in the UAE. Bollinger is certain a stint in England, with its variety of conditions and challenges across all formats, is the place to prove himself. And he’s convinced his best is yet to come.

“The ball’s coming out really well,” he says. “I’m really enjoying bowling here and having to adapt to different conditions; I think it’s a great challenge for me.

“If I keep playing cricket well

Contest: Doug gives advice to Mitchell Johnson (top) and in action for Australia’s T20 side

and stay fit, you never know what can happen.

“That’s as simple as I want to keep it... if I have too many things in front of me I’ll go stupid.”

Bollinger’s already picked up two five-wicket hauls in his first five games for the Spitfires, and he feels like he’s constantly improving, although he isn’t a fan of the British weather.

“I’d like the sun to be out a bit more, but it’s a whole new experience, and it’s taking me out of my comfort zone a bit and I’m really enjoying it.

“Trying to dominate here is going to be another notch in my belt. I’m getting wickets here. I feel like I’m bowling well, I’m fit, and that’s all that matters mate.”

The old enemy will face off when the Ashes tour goes to England in June next year. Time will tell whose side Doug will be on.

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TRAVEL LATE DEALS | TRAVEL DIARY | HOLIDAY SNAPS | TRAVEL LISTINGS IMAGE OF THE MONTH

YOU’RE DOING WHAT?

Photos: Getty, Thinkstock, Margaretriver.com and Jarrad Seng

It’s some of Australia’s most challenging, arduous and remote road, so why would you spend six days driving from Perth to Darwin via the Kimberley with 500 other nutcases? To raise $1.3 million for cancer research, and have great fun doing it, that’s why. Hats off to all those who did this year’s Shitbox Rally.

We hope this guy managed to catch a lift. shitboxrally.com.au

INSIDE

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If you thought Newcastle was just a town in north-east England where locals regularly go topless you’d be wrong...

Western Australia has some of the most amazing beaches on Earth and yet there’s no one on them. Apart from you...

The Sunshine Coast is home to a perfect coastline. We find the top five towns to spend your time in when off the beach.

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Richie xxxx Sambora is set to play at Summer Sonic

XXXWILD IN AFRICA GET Adventure travel specialist World xxx.

Expeditions reveals its most popular trips for wildlife viewing in Africa...

Kenya and Tanzania Migration Safari: Ever fancied seeing one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles up close? We’re talking about the great migration of course and, well, you can.

World Expeditions runs a tour taking you in search of the thundering herds, as hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras move from the southern plains to the northern hills after the rainy season (June to October). It’ll leave you lost for words.

Rwanda and Uganda Mountain Gorillas: Seeing gorillas in the wild is one of those really thrilling once-in-alifetime experiences that you should add to your bucket list. Get ready to trek up the steep jungle paths of the Virunga Mountains to get up close and personal with mountain gorillas – we bet you’ll spot one who looks like someone you know – chimpanzees and rare golden monkeys, as well as a journey along the Kazinga Channel, with the chance to see its hippos.

SUMMER SONIC FESTIVAL Tokyo & Osaka, Japan Held simultaneously in Tokyo and Osaka, the Summer Sonic Festival is one of The Land of the Rising Sun’s best music festivals. The rock/alt 16-17 extravaganza will feature the likes of Robert Plant, Pixies, White Lies, Queen (with Adam Lambert in place of the legendary Freddie Mercury) and Richie Sambora of Bon Jovi fame.

AUG

WHY GO: Since its founding in 2000, Summer Sonic has grown from strength to strength. The line-up for this year is huge, as you’d expect from one of Japan’s most renowned festivals.

WHAT ELSE? Traditionally, music festivals are held in big open fields, just think of

FUJI ROCK

Naeba, Japan

Glastonbury and Coachella. However, Summer Sonic, the Tokyo part at least (well, strictly speaking it’s in Chiba), is held in a baseball stadium, which makes for much more ‘organised fun’. Got to love Japan.

HOW MUCH: £90 (for the day) summersonic.com

RAINFOREST WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL Sarawak, Borneo

Madagascar Lemurs: They’re cute little buggers, and what better way to enjoy them than heading to their home turf? You won’t see one or two either – there are more than 70 species of lemur living on the island.

See more at worldexpeditions.com

Held at the Naebi Ski Resort every year since 1997, Fuji 13-22 Rock suitably rocks. Kanye West and Franz Ferdinand are among some of the acts confirmed for this year’s festival that’ll attract more than 100,000 music lovers.

JUNE

fujirock-eng.com

HEIVA FESTIVAL

Banned until the late 19th century (naughty), watch 3-19 entrancing forbidden dances and ‘secret’ songs. A vibrant celebration of Polynesian culture in stunning, sunny Tahiti. And all borderline loopy.

You can spend a long time in Oz without learning much 1-4 about indigenous culture, so thank God for the Garma Festival – announced by the sounds of a didgeridoo no less. It’s a great chance to learn more about the real Australia.

AUG

garmafestival.com.au

Photos: Getty. Words: Ian Armitage

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GARMA FESTIVAL

Gove Pennisula, NT, Australia

tahiti-tourisme.com/discover/heiva-tahiti.asp

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TAHITI JUL

Gorillas in the wild: One for the bucket list xxxx

With Malaysian rainforest as the setting, join thousands 28-30 of melody-makers and party-goers from around the world for three days you’ll never, ever forget (in a good way).

JUN

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WINNER

WINNER BILLY GOAT HILL PARK. SAN FRANCISCO Clare Williamson, Bath UK TELL US MORE The shot was taken on a blistering hot day and I was just enoying the breeze, the shade and the view when this was taken.

RUNNER-UP

RUNNER UP CENTARA GRAND ISLAND RESORT MALDIVES Clare Wilson, Sydney

TELL US MORE I love this picture because at that moment in time I had nothing to do except look at the stunning view ( which is a far cry from my usual life!).

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WANT TO SEE YOUR TRAVEL SHOTS IN PRINT? Send high-res (300 dpi) jpegs with name, age, nationality and a description to: lisa.ferron@tntmagazine.com. Photos are judged by the TNT team at their own discretion. Photos will also be placed on TNT’s Facebook page. For terms and conditions, see tntdownunder.com.

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Learn about indigenous culture with Kakadu Tourism

KAKADU THIS AUSTRALIA

Want to find out more about indigenous culture? Kakadu Tourism has just launched a series of new tours that provide memorable insights into the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

The Footprints of the Past tour allows visitors to see some of the less-accessible and amazingly scenic parts of Kakadu as well as travel back in time, exploring the historical wonders of the area. Another new tour takes visitors through Yellow Water Billabong with renowned landscape photographer, bushman and traveller Paul Arnold, so you can brush up on your photography skills at the same time. Nice. gagudju-dreaming.com

Lovely set of Jaws: Ever since seeing the Spielberg classic we’ve been fascinated by sharks and the idea of being in the water with them – without being chomped on, ideally. If you feel the same, Shark Cage Diving KZN offers the cage dives from Rocky Bay in South Africa, where you’ll spend a couple of hours in the presence of man-eating Great Whites. sharkcagedivingkzn.com

BURGER OFF WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS UK & AUSTRALIA

There are few greater culinary delights than a juicy burger apparently and, in response, British Airways – the only European airline to service Australia – is offering specially created gourmet burgers on flights. Nom! The aptly named ‘flying burger’ has been specially honed over the past 10 months (that’s decidation), and it is made with three different cuts of British beef (chuck, cheek and onglet) to ensure full flavour, even at 35,000ft where the airline says your ability to taste reduces by 30%.

The rather posh-sounding nosh is served with a side of triple-cooked chips and a choice of relishes, but it is exclusive to First Class customers on long-haul flights, so the rest of us will just have to do without (sad face).

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To add insult to our impoverished pockets’ injury, BA will also serve a slightly different ‘Grounded Burger’ in its First Class and Concorde lounges for pre-flight dining.

If you happen to be flying long-haul or in one of the lounges serving the burgers (lucky sods), report back and let us know what you think. britishairways.com

LUXE TREKKING LAUNCHES ON SUNSHINE COAST

AUSTRALIA

One of Australia’s most spectacular nature walks, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk, is now offering a ‘luxe trekking’ option.

The three-day package offers the best of nature with fine food and wine, including

two nights in a rainforest pavilion with a luxurious spa bath.

Highlights of the trek include a spectacular guided walk from Lake Baroon to Kondalilla Falls, where walkers can cool off with a swim and champagne before returning to the pavilions for a BBQ dinner.

The walk also covers many aspects of local Indigenous history and culture and includes a bush-tucker inspired morning tea hinterlandtourism.com.au

TOKYO TOP CITY AMONG GLOBAL TRAVELLERS

JAPAN

Tokyo was the big winner in TripAdvisor’s latest cities survey, proving extremely popular with global travellers.

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MAD WORLD SNAKE JOINS FRIENDS FOR DINNER

AUSTRALIA

When Pravina de Beer organised a meal for her friends at her Northern Territory home, she probably imagined that the worst thing she’d have to deal with was an undercooked starter.

However, the host and her 25 guests were interrupted as they were eating by a greedy python that had decided to wolf down an entire kangaroo outside.

Speaking to NT News, Ms de Beer explained that this wasn’t the first time a python had given her grief. “Last year, I had a baby goat and a snake ate it under my home.”

Tokyo is popular with travellers It offers the best overall experience and also has helpful locals, good taxi services and local transportation, and clean streets, according to the poll. In all, it ranked top 10 in 13 out of 16 categories in the survey – impressive.

Singapore, which was number one for comfort travelling alone, and second for taxi service, cleanliness of streets, ease of getting around and family friendliness, was another strong performer.

Moscow, Beijing, Marrakech, Kuala Lumpur, Mumbai, and Punta Cana all performed badly. tripadvisor.com.au

After 60 years, the Sunlander is retiring

THE NEIGHBOUR FROM HELL USA

AUSTRALIA

Photos: Facebook, Getty

JAPAN

Otasuke in Tokyo is officially offering a ‘balding discount’ to folically challenged diners.

Anyone who enters the restaurant – which features a ‘Be bald, be proud’ sign, can get the discount by displaying their ‘baldness’ to a server. The more bald customers in a group, the greater the discount the party receives. Get over there baldies!

SUNLANDER’S LAST HURRAH It is regarded as one of the world’s greatest rail journeys running from Brisbane to Cairns, but the Sunlander is officially retiring on New Year’s Eve. Boo. But you can still book a place on its final ride. Yay! The iconic train, which travels the Queensland coastline between Brisbane and Cairns, is making way for the stateof-the-art Spirit of Queensland trains.

“The retirement of the Sunlander train is the end of an era for Queensland Rail

TOKYO RESTAURANT OFFERS DISCOUNT TO BALD DINERS

and we can celebrate one of Australia’s longest running and most spectacular rail journeys,” said transport and main roads minister, Scott Emerson. He added that the Sunlander train service had provided more than three million passengers with a unique rail journey and would be missed.

Tickets are bound to sell out fast for its final journey, so get on board, quick! queenslandrailtravel.com.au/Specials/ Pages/TheSunlanderfarewell

A woman from northeast Florida had her neighbour’s home demolished after a longrunning feud.

According to an arrest report, Ana Maria Moreta-Folch of St Augustine told a heavy equipment operator that she owned the trailer and wanted it and its septic tank destroyed. The act of revenge landed Moreta-Folch in hot water, howevershe was charged with criminal mischief and released on $10,000 bail.

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Considered one of Queensland’s premier holiday destinations, the Sunshine Coast is home to a perfect coastline and is naturally a popular backpacker destination. Visitors keen to experience a slice of this amazing part of the world (it really is a stunner) will head straight for the beaches and surf, but there’s plenty to do around the Sunshine Coast’s towns such as Noosa, Maroochydore, Alexandra Headlands and Caloundra, which have become loaded with apartments, nightspots and tourism attractions...

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NOOSA Noosa was a big winner at the 2013 TNT Golden Backpack Awards, voted Best Backpacker City/Region in Australia, squeezing out traditional favourites Sydney, Cairns, the Gold Coast and Byron Bay. Unsurprisingly popular with our readers, it is a town steeped in ‘Strayan’ beach culture and the jewel in the Sunshine Coast’s crown. It is one of Queensland’s most beautiful towns – a real beauty queen – and is perfect at pretty much any time of year (if

anything winter – June and July – is best to visit because it’s a bit quieter and temps can still reach 23°C).

A great way to see Noosa is getting environmentally friendly on a bike or canoe. Take a mountain bike tour on trails that will lead you to the best photo opportunities in town. General bike hire starts from $25 for the day (bikeon.com.au), or more for tours.

Likewise, hop in a canoe and paddle yourself around the quays of Noosaville and Noosa River. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, head out on a guided three day trip into Upper Noosa River, exploring the Cooloola Sandpatch and Teewah Coloured Sands. For more info see kanukapersaustralia.com.

Must-dos are Noosa National Park and shopping on the famous Hastings Street, while we couldn’t recommend going on a camel ride (camelcompany. com.au) more highly, even if they are a poor man’s giraffe. visitnoosa.com.au

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TOPFIVE

SUNSHINE COAST

MY EXPERIENCE

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Debbie loved the locals

DEBBIE CLARK WHERE DID YOU GO?

I visited the Sunshine Coast in January 2014 and, after staying in Brisbane, I was lucky enough to visit Noosa and Hervey Bay, which included a three-day camping trip to Fraser Island.

WHY DID YOU GO THERE?

I took a detour while travelling from Sydney to Cairns. Our travel operator recommended it and it was a bit of word of mouth too.

RAINBOW BEACH

MOOLOOLABA

Rainbow Beach is the major entry point to the Cooloola National Park, which offers one of the great 4WD excursions in Queensland, and is the usual jump-off spot for Fraser Island.

It’s famous for huge cliffs, dunes and coloured sands, as well as the longest surf break in Oz. Check out the Carlo Sandblow – a unique moonscape sand mass – and feed wild dolphins just down the road at Tin Can Bay.

Mooloolaba is a thriving sunshine resort and its magnificent beach and sheltered waters are its claim to fame.

Mooloolaba’s Wharf is where you’ll find Underwater World with an ocean of finned friends and foes. Entry is $30.

The best part is that for a fee you can dive with the sharks ($175 if you are certified diver, $229 if not). You can also go in search of humpback whales on the Whale One boat (whaleone.com.au).

rainbowbeachinfo.com.au

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WHAT WAS THE BEST BIT?

The best part of the trip for me was Fraser Island. I had so much fun camping in the dunes, driving in a 4x4 over the beaches and swimming in the fresh water lakes.

Couldn’t recommend it more!

COOLUM BEACH

CALOUNDRA

Coolum is the largest beach resort on Queensland’s southern Sunshine Coast and is perfect for lazy holidays.

It’s also the home of one of Australia’s richest idiots, Clive Palmer – the chubby mining magnate with more money than sense who has built his own dinosaur park (Palmersaurus) at his Palmer Coolum Resort. The park includes 160 moving – and roaring – dinosaurs. Entry is $37.50.

With the dramatic outlines of the Glass House Mountains silhouetted along the hinterland horizon, cafes and boutiques galore, and Kings Beach, Dicky Beach, and Golden Beach all nearby, there aren’t many better places than this.

When you’ve had your fill of all that, visit Australia Zoo – the home to more than 1,000 animals (australiazoo.com.au) – or take a boat cruise down the calm straits of the Pumicestone Passage.

coolum.com.au

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caloundracity.com.au

Photos: Getty, Thinkstock. Words: Ian Armitage

WHAT WAS IT LIKE?

The Sunshine Coast is stunning. Every stop is very different and unique in its own way. The area is home to the fantastic Australia Zoo and Noosa is literally postcard perfect sun, surf and sand.

There are some great national parks too with untouched views and beautiful scenery.

An erection at the end of Nobby’s Beach (tee hee) 42

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Newcastle, Oz style Australia’s Newcastle couldn’t be further from the spray-painted faces of the UK’s Geordie Shore. And thank God for that WORDS ALEXANDRA E. PETRI

Named after England’s famous coal port, Newcastle was originally the place where the most dangerous convicts were sent to dig in the coal mines as harsh punishment for their crimes. Guess who’s having the last laugh now.

While England is stuck with the orange-faced Geordie Shore bunch who spout incredible sentences such as “Tonight we’re hitting Scary Canary and I’ve got a hairy fairy”, Newcastle in Australia is now a cute port town with locals as friendly as they come Down Under.

Situated a two-hour drive or a three-hour train ride outside Sydney, Newcastle is fast becoming a quick getaway for city dwellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Although, for a small beach town, a weekend in Newcastle can pack a punch if done right. It’s got great surfing spots, offers high-adrenalin among the sand dunes, its art scene is growing and its small bar scene is overflowing...

First impressions...

I’d never been to Newcastle before and expected it to be this pristine little gem, but I am surprised to find it is a little rough around the edges. I’m not too disappointed, however, as the weekend soon gives way to Newcastle’s determined personality to be something big.

I’m visiting Newcastle outside of summer and, as my train pulls into the station, I can’t help but notice how eerily quiet and still it seems. Am I in the right place? Where’s the noise and the crowds? It almost feels like a ghost town. (I’d later learn that, in some ways, it is.)

I meander down to my accommodation at the Newcastle Beach YHA (yha.com.au), which is just a short walk from the station and across the street from the beach. It’s a great spot, with neat and tidy rooms, amiable staff and an easygoing vibe; however, don’t expect to feel like you’re being rocked to sleep by the sound of the waves as the rooms don’t come with sea views.

I head to dinner at Queen’s Wharf Brewery, a Newcastle institution right on the harbour. As I sit there eating heavenlike sliders and sipping on a cider (I’m a poet and I didn’t even realise it), Newcastle’s history unfolds itself as I watch boats and barges coming through the harbour. It seems like

The Brewery, Queens Wharf a place that treads a fine line between an industrial port town and a picturesque beach town, but it’s clearly pushing fast forward to put itself on the tourism map.

In a post-dinner food coma, I make my way down to meet Renata Daniel who takes me on the ‘East End Dark History and Ghost Walk’. It’s late, there’s a cool breeze passing through, and we are following the footsteps of the first convicts sent to Newcastle. Cue spine chills.

I can’t say I saw any ghosts, but it was a unique way to hear the history of Newcastle. I stay close to Renata as she shows me how the city, once richly vast in resources including coal, timber, and cedar, grew from the penal colony it was to the thriving (and possibly haunted) place it is today.

The next day I make my way to tour Fort Scratchley, situated high above the city with endless views of Nobby’s Beach below (Yep, Nobby’s, brilliant). My tour guide (like all TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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OZTRIP the guides) is a volunteer; an older bloke in his late sixties whose mannerisms are as soft as a pillow. He’s wearing a guard’s uniform topped off with a soft canvas army hat, the tie fastened right under his chin. I wonder if it’s at all uncomfortable to wear his hat so tight on this 29° day.

Fort Scratchley plays a pivotal role both to local and national history as the only Australian fort to fire at an enemy ship during war time when it took action against a Japanese submarine in WWII. My guide leads us around the site and takes us on an exclusive tour where we snake through the underground tunnels. We make our way back in time for the seafaring tradition of firing the guns at 1pm, which coincides with the drop of the time ball in the clock tower just behind the fort. My guide explains it is an international tradition that was used in ports around the world during the 19th century to help sea captains adjust their navigation instruments.

The gun goes off.

It produces a small cloud of smoke, but a big smile on the faces of all the dedicated volunteers.

Get wild If there was anything I wanted to do during my time in Australia, it was to go for a surf. My surf 44

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instructor, Blake, from the Newcastle Surf School, picks me up bright and early from YHA. As if he’d been lifted right out of the ’60s, Blake has long, blond curly hair, sun-kissed skin, eyes as blue as the ocean and hippie Beatlesesque glasses. He’s softly spoken and polite, with a real surfer’s melody to the waves of his voice. Luckily I am a morning person, and we have a bit of a chat about our opposing lifestyles: his office is the ocean whereas mine is a desk in a 13-floor building.

“I reckon I’ve spent nearly 60% of my life in the water,” Blake says.

We make our way down to Nobby’s Beach, and the waves aren’t too rough. It’s a gentle and calm morning. There are a few younger girls beside me learning to surf, and I find myself thinking of my older brother who is a soon-tobe-father. “My brother is a surfer,” I say to Blake.

“Loves it. Plays rugby, too, for the US team.

Australia would be his dream. He’s going to be a dad – they’re having a little girl. He can’t wait to teach her how to surf.”

“Wicked,” Blake replies. Yeah, wicked. I started paddling with my waterlogged purple cast to catch my first wave. (When I broke my wrist a few weeks earlier, my doctor advised that surfing stay off the weekend’s activities. Whoops.)

Turns out it didn’t slow me down as much as I thought it would in the water, but driving an ATV with it was a different story...

I wake up Sunday morning to hurricane-

Photos: Sand Dune Adventures, Getty Images, Thinkstock, The Brewery Queens Wharf

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strong winds. Perfect day to hit up sand dunes, I think to myself. Thank God I have a jumper but damn for not bringing trousers.

We drive about a half-hour to Williamtown, where we sign some liability papers (eek!) at the Sand Dune Adventures office (sandduneadventures. com.au). From there we’re off another 10 minutes down a dirt road that our toy car fights its way along, and we meet our guides for the day.

We strap on helmets, put on hi-res vests and climb on to our quad bikes. It doesn’t take long before someone notices my cast.

“I’ll be okay,” I half-lie.

I wasn’t so much worried about my wrist as I was with my success rate at driving a Sand Dune Adventures quad bike. We go through a quick tutorial and are asked if we have any questions, but I clam up as I feel the panic rising. We start driving, and I realise that I am moving at a glacial pace. (It appears quad biking with a cast is uncomfortable. Whoops.) Despite my discomfort, though, this is an incredible experience. The earth feels desolate and surprisingly quiet but for the sound of my own voice pushing me forward.

Up and down we go as the dunes get bigger, following instructions on when to go slow or fast down hills, to keep my grip around the throttle or to let it go. My heart is pounding, my concentration is steady and my main goal is to not fly over the bike face forward. The highest dune we go down is 80 feet – or was it 18? Same difference really when you’re stopped still at the top of dune and the rush of adrenaline propels you forward. Scary? Yes. Fun? Hell yes.

with its total of 21 independently owned and Australian brewed beers on tap. It reminds me of a funky, warehousestyle bar you’d find in perhaps Newton.

Yet if you’re looking for the real Newton of Newcastle, it’s best to head over to Darby Street, just a few minutes’ drive or a short walk from the beachfront. It seems like it’s the heart of Newcastle’s affinity for coffee, as it’s lined with plenty of cafes. Mixed in are small boutiques, restaurants and bars that make it a lively little strip helping to give this city a beat of its own.

Newcastle, you are definitely having the last laugh. And I’m happy to laugh along with you.

Eating and drinking One thing is for certain in Newcastle, and that’s the growing and hungry cafe, restaurant and small bar scene.

The weekends offer a culinary feast and an appreciation for the name that Newcastle is trying to make for itself when it comes to all things food and drink.

The beachfront sees a handful of small cafes, and among them is Estabar (Facebook: Estabar Newcastle Beach), which is swarming with customers like bees in a hive. This clearly is a favourite. Not only are the owners and staff friendly and the food fresh and delicious, but the coffee tastes so good it I feels like I am drinking it for the first time. Three lattes later and I find I have to stop before I start getting the shakes.

Bars including the Grain Store (grainstorenewcastle.com.au) are fostering a sense of appreciation for boutique beers

Nobby’s Beach

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TOPTEN

WEST AUSTRALIA BEACHES

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CAPE RANGE NATIONAL PARK

It’s mind-boggling to think that Western Australia has some of the most amazing beaches on Earth, and yet there’s no one on them. You can have an entire beach completely to yourself - honest. If this was anywhere else in the world, it’d be crammed full of people with high-rise buildings and properties all over the place.

Rich Keam was one of seven winners 46

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of Tourism Australia’s Best Jobs in the World campaign, beating 339,000 other applicants. He spent six months checking out the best of Australia’s west (lucky bastard) so he knows his stuff. Here he shares some of his favourite coastline spots, from Cape Leveque in the north, travelling right down to the wilderness coastline of the south-west...

Cape Range is a place of rugged limestone ranges, breathtaking deep canyons and 50km of pristine beach.

I stayed at Sal Salis, a remote beachside safari camp nestled in the dunes of the park. It’s an incredibly isolated yet stunning location, just metres from the World Heritage Ningaloo Reef.

Grab your mask and snorkel for an underwater adventure you’ll never forget, or if visiting between April and June swim with the world’s largest fish, the docile whale shark.

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TOPTEN FOR AN ALLOVER TAN...

The wandering eye

AHH, MY EYES! CABLE BEACH

CAPE LEVEQUE

One of the most iconic things to do in Western Australia is a lolloping camel ride along the famous Cable Beach as the sun is setting.

Rated as one of the top five beaches in the world, it’s a 22km stretch of pure white sand with red ochre cliffs on one side and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean on the other.

Situated at the tip of the Dampier Peninsula in the north-west of Western Australia, it was here that I learnt to catch and cook huge mud crabs on the banks of Hunters Creek. After waiting for the tide to go out, indigenous guide Brian Lee and I took our crab catching poles and hessian sacks to go get some dinner. A truly remarkable experience.

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Like to sunbathe starkers? If an all-over tan is your desire, we’ve put together a list of Australia’s top ‘clothes optional’ beaches – it’ll definitely free up some room in your backpack!

PERTH: SWANBORNE BEACH

Easy to reach, it’s just down from the main beach at Perth.

MELBOURNE: SUNNYSIDE NORTH IN MT ELIZA

It’s about 30km south of Melbourne, making this beach a little less accessible, but it’s a great spot for safe swimming/skinny dipping.

NOOSA HEADS, QUEENSLAND: ALEXANDRIA BEACH

This is one of the unofficial ones and probably the most popular in Queensland.

MONKEY MIA Monkey Mia lies smack bang in the middle of the World Heritage-listed Shark Bay on the tip of of an isolated peninsula halfway between Perth and Broome. Each morning for 40 years, wild bottlenose dolphins have swum to the shallows of this pristine beach to visit and interact with people. Get up early to feed and learn all about the dolphins in one of the world’s greatest wildlife experiences. Oh, and there’s 320 days of sunshine a year.

FRANCOIS PERON NATIONAL PARK Francois Peron National Park is a four-wheel driver’s paradise, with remote camping sites, fishing spots and secret beaches down hidden tracks.

It’s situated at the northern tip of the Peron Peninsula in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, and it’s here where I had my most memorable food experience in WA: chiselling fresh oysters from rocks in the Indian Ocean and cooking them over a beach BBQ.

SYDNEY: LADY’S BAY AND COBBLER’S BEACH

Easy access and the most popular in Sydney.

BYRON BAY: BELONGIL BEACH

A really nice beach just north of the main beach from Byron.

ADELAIDE: MASLIN BEACH

Australia’s first legal naturist beach. If it ain’t broke...

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WEST AUSTRALIA BEACHES

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ABROLHOS ISLANDS

If you make your way up to Kalbarri on the Coral Coast from Perth (about a 590km drive), be sure to take the Indian Ocean Road. It’s a great introduction to the area with dozens of spectacular lookout spots en-route. You can really imagine the Dutch trading ships circumnavigating the coastline hundreds of years ago.

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ROTTNEST ISLAND Rotto is the playground for most people growing up round these parts. Superb snorkelling, 63 beaches, friendly quokkas and 50km of road to explore by pedal power (no cars allowed), so it’s not hard to find your own secluded spot. Feeling a bit adventurous? Take a ride on the Rottnest Express speedboat and spot dolphins, seals and (season permitting) humpback whales playing in the bays. If Santa hung out on beaches, Rotto would be his Grotto (mainly because it rhymes).

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MARGARET RIVER PREVELLY BEACH Margaret River has it all: boutique vineyards, stunning forests and great beaches with some of the most consistent, high-quality surf anywhere on Earth. Surfers travel from around the world to take on the world-class waves of this renowned region. With more than 130km of pristine coastline from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin, it’s no wonder the Margaret River Pro surfing event is held here every year. Awesome to watch.

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THE WILDERNESS COAST Home to Greens Pool and Boat Harbour, some of the most tranquil, beautiful spots in the country, the far south-west corner of Western Australia is where the coastline becomes really wild, untamed and rugged. I love it down here. If you walk the 1,000km Bibbulmun track from Perth down to Albany, Denmark is where you’ll come across the coast. Stand atop a cliff and look out into the Southern Ocean, with Antarctica due south, only 1,000km away.

Photos: Thinkstock, Tourism Western Australia and bibbulmuntrack.org.au

SHIPWRECK COAST

70km off the coast of Geraldton on the Coral Coast lie the Abrolhos Islands. They’re made up of 148 separate islands, with 22 of them home to the thriving rock lobster fisherman and their families for parts of the year. The surrounding coral reef form one of Western Australia’s unique marine areas, acting as a meeting place for tropical and temperate sea life. Take a flight-seeing tour over the islands and hear tales of shipwrecks that have occurred on these beautiful but treacherous reefs over the centuries.

The Best of the West The weather’s balmy, the scenery stupendous and the lifestyle irresistibly laid-back. Western Australia is waiting – and now’s the time to pay a visit. During the month of June we’re offering 15% OFF* our Perth to Exmouth tours when booked for travel before September 30th. Book today get the adventure underway!

Highlights include: Coral Bay • Exmouth • Kalbarri National Park • Monkey Mia • Ningaloo Reef • Pinnacles Desert Sand Dunes • Sandboarding • Turquoise Bay • Optional swim with the Whale Sharks ( June-July)

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02 4782 1416, yha.com.au

CENTRAL COAST Newcastle Beach YHA 30 Pacific St, Newcastle.

02 4925 3544, yha.com.au Terrigal Beach YHA 9 Ocean View Dr, Terrigal.

02 4384 1919, yha.com.au The Entrance Backpackers 2/56 The Entrance Road, The Entrance, 2261 02 4334 5005 theentrancebackpackers.com Skydive Central Coast Warnervale. skydivethecentralcoast.com.au

BYRON BAY Backpackers Holiday Village 116 Jonson St 1800 350 388, byronbaybackpackers.com.au Backpackers Inn 29 Shirley St 1800 817 696 backpackersinnbyronbay.com.au Byron Bay Accom 02 6680 8666, byronbayaccom.net The Arts Factory 1 Skinners Shoot Rd. 02 6685 7709, nomadsworld.com Nomads Byron Bay Lawson Lane.

1800 6680 7966, nomadsworld.com Byron Bay YHA 7 Carlyle St. 1800 678 195 yha.com.au Skydive the Beach Byron Bay Kingsford Smith Park, Ballina 1800 302 005 skydivethebeachbyronbay.com

COFFS HARB Coffs Harbour YHA 51 Collingwood St. 02 6652 6462, yha.com.au Harbour City Holiday Park 123 Pacific Highway coffsholidaypark.com.au Hoey Moey Backpackers 80 Ocean Pde hoeymoey.com.au Solitary Islands Marine Resort North St, Wooli NSW 1462 1800 003 031 solitaryislandsresort.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Manly Backpackers 24-28 Raglan St. Manly.

02 9977 3411 manlybackpackers.com.au Cammeray Gardens 66 Palmer St, North Sydney.

02 9954 9371 sydneyboardinghouse.com Wake Up! 509 Pitt St, CBD. 02 9288 7888, wakeup.com.au

SYDNEY DO Manly Surf School Manly Beach. 02 9977 6977, manlysurfschool.com Maritime Museum Darling Harbour. anmm.gov.au My Sydney Detour Unique city tours. mysydneydetour.com Oceanworld Manly West Esplanade. oceanworld.com.au

SEA LIFE SYDNEY AQUARIUM Sure you could go diving in Darling Harbour, but why not stay on dry land and visit SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium instead. It has all the fish you’d see in the harbour anyway, plus the rest of Australia covered too. About 6,000 more to be precise, and they can all be enjoyed splash and batter-free.

Sydney

sydneyaquarium.com.au

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QLDLISTINGS BRISBANE STAY Aussie Way Backpackers 34 Cricket St. 07 3369 0711, aussiewaybackpackers.com Banana Bender Backpackers 118 Petrie Terrace.

07 3367 1157, bananabenders.com Base Brisbane Embassy 214 Elizabeth St. 07 3166 8000, stayatbase.com Base Brisbane Central 308 Edward St. 07 3211 2433, stayatbase.com Brisbane Backpackers Resort 110 Vulture St, West End. 1800 626 452, brisbanebackpackers.com.au Brisbane City Backpackers 380 Upper Roma St 1800 062 572, citybackpackers.com Bunk Backpackers Cnr Ann & Gipps Sts, 1800 682 865, katarzyna.com.au The Deck 117 Harcourt Street, New Farm.

04 3270 6666, bbmlive.com.au Base Uptown Cnr George & Herschel Sts. 1800 24 2273 stayatbase.com Balmoral House 33 Amelia St, Fortitude Valley vipbackpackers.com Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St yha.com.au The Elephant Hotel 230 Wickham St elephanthotel.com.au Somewhere to Stay Cnr Brighton Rd & Franklin St somewheretostay.com.au The Palace Backpackers Cnr Anne & Edward St backpackbrisbane.com Tin Billy Travellers 462 George St tinbilly.com

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

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

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

Lower River Terrace, Kangaroo Point.

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

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1300 254 627, storybridgeadventureclimb. com.au

1800 020 120 mooloolababackpackers.com

XXXX Brewery Tours & Ale House Brewery tours.

Cnr Black & Paten St, Milton.

07 3361 7597, xxxxalehouse.com. au

RAINBOW BEACH

GOLD COAST Aquarius Backpackers 44 Queen St, Surfers Paradise.

1800 22 99 55, aquariusbackpackers.com.au Backpackers in Paradise 40 Peninsula Drive, Surfers Paradise. 1800 268 621, backpackersinparadise.com.au

Dingos Backpacker Adventure Resort 20 Spectrum St. 1800 111126, dingosresort.com Pippies Beach House 22 Spectrum St. 1800 425 356, pippiesbeachhouse.com Skydive Rainbow Beach 0418 218 358, skydiverainbowbeach.com

HERVEY BAY

Coolangatta YHA Pl, 230 Coolangatta Rd, Bilinga.

07 5536 76442, yha.com.au

Aussie Woolshed 181 Torquay Rd 07 4124 0677 woolshedbackpackers.com.au

Gold Coast International BP 28 Hamilton Ave, Surfers.

1800 816 300, goldcoastbackpackers.com.au

Next at Hervey Bay 10 Bideford St. 1800 102 989, nextbackpackers.com

Islander Backpackers Resort 6 Beach Rd, Surfers.

1800 074 393, islander.com.au

Palace Backpackers 184 Torquay, 1800 063 168, palaceadventures.com.au

Sleeping Inn Surfers 26 Peninsular Dr, Surfers Paradise.

1800 817 832, sleepinginn.com.au Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort 2837 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers.

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

07 5571 1776, yha.com.au Trekkers Backpackers 22 White St, Southport.

07 5591 5616, trekkersbackpackers.com.au Nomads Islander Resort 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, nomadsworld.com Surf & Sun Backpackers 3323 Surfers Paradise Blvd surfnsun-goldcoast.com

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

seaworld.com.au

Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World wetnwild.myfun.com.au Warner Bros Movie World movieworld.com.au Zorb 07 5547 6300

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

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FRASER ISLAND Eurong Beach Resort 07 4120 1600, eurong.com.au Palace Adventures 184 Torquay St, Hervey Bay, 1800 063 168 palaceadventures.com.au

Woolshed Backpackers 181 Torquay Road woolshedbackpackers.com.au

BUNDABERG Federal Backpackers 221 Bourbong St. 07 4153 3711 federalbackpackers.com.au Northside Backpackers 12 Queen St. 07 4154 1166 Bundaberg Bondstore Distillery tours.

07 4131 2999 bundabergrum.com.au

TOWN OF 1770 1770 Backpackers 6 Captain Cook Dr. 1800 121 770, the1770backpackers.com 1770 Undersea Adventures 1300 553 889, 1770underseaadventures.com. au

AIRLIE BEACH airliebeach.com 259 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 677 119 Airlie Beach YHA 394 Shute Harbour Rd. 07 4946 6312, yha.com.au Backpackers by the Bay 12 Hermitage Dr. 1800 646 994, backpackersbythebay.com

Barefoot Lodge Long Island barefootlodge.com.au

Base Airlie Beach Resort 336 Shute Harbour Rd 07 4948 2000, stayatbase.com

Colonial Village YHA 820 Boat Harbour Drive, Urangan, Hervey Bay yha.com.au

Magnums Whitsunday Village Resort 366 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 624 634 magnums.com.au

Cool Dingo’s Rainbow Beach 20 Spectrum St dingosresort.com Dropbear Adventures Williams Ave, Fraser Island.

QLD 61 487 333 606 dropbearadventures.com.au Frasers On Rainbow Beach 195 Torquay Terrace, Torquay, flashpackersherveybay.com Kingfisher Bay Resort River Heads Road, Fraser Island kingfisherbay.com Fraser Coast Top Tourist Park 21 Denmans Camp Road, Scarness, Hervey Bay frasercoasttouristpark.com.au Fraser Island Backpackers Cathedral Beach, Fraser Island fraserislandco.com.au Fraser’s on Rainbow 18 Spectrum Av, Rainbow Beach frasersonrainbow.com The Friendly Hostel 182 Torquay Rd, Hervey Bay friendlyhostel.com.au

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

TOWNSVILLE Adventurers Resort 79 Palmer St. 1800 211 522, adventurersresort.com Adrenalin Dive.

07 4724 0600, adrenalindive.com.au Yongala Dive Yongala diving.

07 4783 1519, yongaladive.com.au

MAGNETIC IS Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd. 07 4778 5777, stayatbase.com Bungalow Bay Backpackers Horseshow Bay.

@tnt_downunder 1800 285 577, bungalowbay.com.au Hotel Arcadia 7 Marine Parade, Arcadia Bay. 07 4778 5177, hotelaracadia.com.au Pleasure Divers 07 4778 5788

MISSION BEACH Absolute Backpackers 28 Wongaling Beach Road.

07 4068 8317, absolutebackpackers.com.au Beach Shack 86 Porters Promenade missionbeachshack.com Scotty’s Beach House 167 Reid Rd. 07 4068 8676, scottysbeachhouse.com.au Jackaroo Hostel Mission Beach Frizelle Rd, Bingil Bay jackaroohostel.com Mission Beach Retreat 49 Porters Promenade missionbeachretreat.com.au

CAIRNS STAY Bohemia Central Cairns 100 Sheridan St. 1800 558 589, bhacentral.com.au Bohemia Resort Cairns 231 McLeod St. 1800 155 353 bohemiaresort.com.au Calypso Backpackers 5 Digger St. 1800 815 628, calypsobackpackers.com.au JJ’s Backpackers Hostel 11 Charles St. 07 4051 7642, jjsbackpackers.com NJoy Backpackers Hostel Harbour 141 Sheridan St. 1800 807 055, njoy.net.au Nomads Beach House 239 Sheridan St. 1800 229 228, nomadshostels.com Northern Greenhouse 117 Grafton Street.

1800 229 228, northerngreenhouse.com.au

CAIRNS DO AJ Hackett Bungy jumping & canyon swinging.

1800 622 888 cairns.ajhackett.com Go Wild Jungle Tours Day tours to Daintree Rainforest. 07 4041 9440, jungletours.com.au Pro Dive 07 4031 5255 prodivecairns.com Raging Thunder Adventures Whitewater rafting.

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

er.

. . .

E R E H Y L L A IN F E ’R YOU

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN!

Backpackers 40% off ALL economy rail fares* Get more out of your Queensland adventure with these great value fares for overseas backpackers and you can enjoy the journey almost as much as the destination.

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

Spirit of Queensland The Sunlander Tilt Train Spirit of the Outback The Westlander The Inlander Connecting Coach Connecting City Network

Thursday Island

Bamaga

Lizard Island

Cape York Peninsula Green Island

Cairns

QUEENSLAND Mount Isa

Cloncurry

Our 5 Day PADI Open water course is the most popular way to do it.

Townsville

Longreach Barcaldine

Whitsunday Islands

Proserpine

Hughenden

Winton

ree ked d er

Magnetic Island

Charters Towers

Julia Creek

Great Barrier Reef

Tully

Airlie Beach Mackay

Drummond Range Emerald Alpha

Yeppoon Heron Island

Rockhampton

Gladstone

Bundaberg Charleville Quilpie

Mitchell

Cunnamulla

Maryborough West Gympie Toowoomba

Lady Elliot Island Fraser Island

Hervey Bay Sunshine Coast

Brisbane Gold Coast

ree ) ey

se uise Be ght

Pacific Ocean

We also specialise in Liveaboard dive trips and all levels of dive education.

o the you

t ed. uck heir rns

Book your backpacker rail fares at queenslandrailtravel.com.au

www.prodivecairns.com

Terms and conditions: *To receive the discount international backpackers must hold a current passport with an international address. Discounts of 40% applies to economy, premium economy and business seat fares.

These fares exclude Australian resident backpackers who receive up to 10% discounts off the rail fare. For full terms and conditions and other fares available ask your travel agent or visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au.

Queensland Rail ABN 68 598 268 528 Travel Agent Lic. No. QLD 327 4957 QR3789.37_87x245_1113

SHOP: Cnr Shields & Grafton Sts, Cairns FREECALL: 1800 353 213 PHONE: +617 4031 5255 RES: info@prodivecairns.com tntdownunder.com

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QLDLISTINGS CAPE TRIB Crocodylus Village Lot 5, Buchanan Creek Rd, Cow Bay. 07 4098 9166, crocodyluscapetrib.com PK’s Jungle Village Cnr Avalon & Cape Trib Rd. 1800 232 333, pksjunglevillage.com.au

INNISFAIL Innisfail Budget Backpackers Worker’s Hostel 125 Edith St. 07 4061 78337 Walkabout Motel & ackpackers 07 4061 2311 walkaboutbackpackers.com

PORT DOUGLAS Parrotfish Backpackers Resort 37 Warner St, Kuranda.

07 4099 5011, parrotfishlodge.com

GULF SAVANNAH Emu Creek Cattle Station 08 9943 0534

DAINTREE Koala Beach Resort Lake St, 07 4051 4933

MORETON ISLAND

Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Resort tangalooma.com

NOOSA STAY Flashpackers Noosa 102 Pacific Avenue, Sunshine Beach flashpackersnoosa.com Nomads Noosa Backpackers 44 Noosa Dr Noosa Inland nomadsworld.com Noosa Backpackers 9-13 William St, Noosaville noosabackpackers.com Halse Lodge YHA 2 Halse Lane, Noosa.

1800 242 567, halselodge.com.au Dolphins Beach House Noosa 14 – 16 Duke Street, Sunshine Beach dolphinsbeachhouse.com

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

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Noosa Learn to Surf Noosa Main Beach, Noosa Heads learntosurf.com.au

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

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

AGNES WATER 1770 Beachside Backpacker 12 Captain Cook Drive independentbackpackers.com

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1770 Southern Cross Backpackers 2694 Round Hill Rd 1770southerncross.com

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

SUNSHINE COAST

TOWNSVILLE Adventurers Backpackers 79 Palmer St

adventurersresort.com Civic Guest House Backpackers Hostel 262 Walker St civicguesthousetownsville.

com.au Foreign Exchange Accommodation Beachside 19 Eyre St, North Ward

foreignx.com.au

Amore on Buderim 27 Earlybird Dr, Buderim amoreonbuderim.com.au Buderim Motor Inn 45 King St, Buderim buderimmotorinn.com Bli Bli House B&B 600 David Low Way, Pacific Paradise. buderimmotorinn.com Beach Front Towers 4 Aerodrome Rd, Marochydore beachfronttowers.com.au Cotton Tree Beachouse 15 the Esplanade cottontreebackpackers.com The Duporth 6 Wharf St, Maroochydore theduporth.com.au

MACKAY Gecko’s Rest 34 Sydney St

geckosrest.com.au

MAGNETIC IS Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd

stayatbase.com Bungalow Bay Koala Village YHA 40 Horseshoe Bay Rd

bungalowbay.com.au

Photo: Getty

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MAGNETIC ISLAND When Captain Cook rocked up on Magnetic Island in 1700 he noticed that his compasses went a bit mental. He was so convinced the island had a magnetic force that interfered with his navigation, he quickly named the island after his assumption. Although it turned out the Cookie Monster was wrong about the compass thing, over the years Magnetic Island has developed a powerful magnetic force over backpackers. And it’s easy to see why backpackers love “Maggie”, as the locals affectionately know her. The luscious, tropical playground is a convenient 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville and home to the largest population of koalas in northern Australia. magnetic-island.com.au

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Australia’s

Gold Coast

Famous for fun

AdventureGoldCoast.com

facebook.com/AdventureGoldCoast twitter.com/AdventureGoldCoast

TASLISTINGS

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HOBART STAY

LAUNCESTON DO

CHECK IN

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

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

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

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

Montgomery’s YHA 9 Argyle St. 03 6231 2660, yha.com.au Narrara Backpackers 88 Goulburn St. 03 6234 8801, narrarabackpackers.com

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

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

DEVONPORT

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

CENTRAL CITY BACKPACKERS 138 Collins St, Hobart. Dorms from $21 Regular finalists and winners in the TNT Golden Backpack Awards, Central City is massively popular with our readers.

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

Hobart

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

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

centralcityhobart.com

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

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

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

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

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

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Mt Roland Budget Backpacker Rooms 1447 Claude Rd, Gowrie Park. 03 6491 1385

CRADLE DO Devils @ Cradle Tassie devil sanctuary. 3950 Cradle Mountain Rd. 03 6492 1491. devilsatcradle.com Overland Track Six-day walk parks.tas.gov.au

FREYCINET Big 4 Iluka Reserve Rd. 03 6257 0115, yha.com.au Freycinet National Park Brewery, Wineglass Bay camping. 03 6256 7000 wineglassbay.com

STRAHAN, Strahan YHA 43 Harvey St. 03 6471 7255, yha.com

STRAHAN DO Wild Rivers Jet Jet Boat Cruises.

0364717396 wildriversjet.com.au Water by Nature Extreme multiday whitewater rafting. 1800 111 142, franklinrivertasmania.com

Photo: Getty

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

56

CRADLE MOUNTAIN This beautiful curve of dolomite rock jutting above a glacial lake is considered something of the jewel in the crown of the 1,262sq km Lake St Clair National Park. Towering 1,545 metres above sea level, this rugged series of peaks perhaps best captures the allure of Tasmania’s rugged alpine heart. The breathtaking views offered at the summit, the beautiful natural scenery of the area, and the national park in general make this another hugely popular tourist attraction and another unique opportunity offered by Australia’s southern island.

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VICLISTINGS

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MELBOURNE STAY

CHECK IN

All Nations Nomads 2 Spencer St. 03 9620 1022, nomadsworld.com.au

Melbourne 1300 798 843 skydivethebeachmelbourne.com Tourism Victoria Backpacking ideas. backpackmelbourne.com

Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda.

09 8598 6200, stayatbase.com

Wildlife Tours Australia Specialising in Victorian tours +61 3 9314 2225 wildlifetours.com.au

Central Melbourne Accommodation 21 Bromham Place, Richmond.

03 9427 9826, centralaccommodation.net

Anglesea Backpackers 40 Noble St, Anglesea.

03 5263 2664, angleseabackpackers.com.au

Exford Hotel 199 Russell St. 03 9663 2697, exfordhotel.com.au Flinders Station Hotel 35 Elizabeth St. 03 9620 5100, flindersbackpackers.com.au The Greenhouse Backpacker Level 6, 228 Flinders Lane.

1800 249 207, greenhousebackpacker.com.au Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Road, St Kilda. 1800 202 500, habitathq.com.au Home at the Mansion 66 Victoria Parade.

03 9663 4212 homemansion.com.au Home Travellers Motel 32 Carlisle St, St Kilda.

1800 008 718, homehostels.com.au Discovery Melbourne 167 Franklin St. 03 9329 7525 discoverymelbourne.com Melbourne Central YHA 562 Flinders St. 03 9621 2523, yha.com.au Nomads Melbourne 198 A’beckett St. 03 9328 4383, nomadshostels.com Space Hotel 380 Russell St. 1800 670 611, spacehotel.com.au The Spencer 475 Spencer St. 1800 638 108, spencerbackpackers.com.au Back of Chapel 50 Green St, Windsor nomadshostels.com College Lawn Hotel 36 Greville St, Prahran collegelawnhotel.com.au Claremont Guesthouse 189 Toorak Rd, South Yarra hotelclaremont.com City Centre Budget Hotel 22-30 Little Collins St citycentrebudgethotel.com Elephant Backpackers 250 Flinders St

St Kilda

stayatbase.com

elephantbackpacker.com.au Elizabeth Hostel 490 Elizabeth St elizabethhostel.com.au King St Backpackers 160 King Street kingstreetbackpackers.com.au Hotel Discovery 167 Franklin St hoteldiscovery.com.au Lords Lodge Backpackers 204 Punt Rd lordslodge.com.au Melbourne International Backpackers 450 Elizabeth St mibp.com.au Melbourne Metro YHA 78 Howard St yha.com.au Melbourne Oasis YHA 76 Chapman St yha.com.au St Arnaud 99 Park St, South Yarra, starnaudguesthouse.com The Spencer City Central BP 475 Spencer St spencerbackpackers.com.au The Nunnery 116 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy nunnery.com.au Urban Central 334 City Road, Southbank urbancentral.com.au Victoria Hotel Backpackers Victoria Hotel, 380 Victoria St vichotelbrunswick.com.au

ST KILDA Back of Chapel Backpackers 50 Green St backofchapel.com Base St Kilda 17 Carlisle St stayatbase.com

Coffee Palace Backpackers 24 Grey St coffeepalacebackpackers.com.au Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Rd, thehabitathq.com.au Oslo Hotel 38 Grey St oslohotel.com.au The Ritz for Backpackers 109 Barkly St ritzbackpackers.com St Kilda Beach House 169B Fitzroy St stkildabeachhouse.com.au

MELBOURNE DO Australian Centre for the Moving Image Federation Square.

03 8663 2200, acmi.net.au Melbourne Aquarium Cnr of Flinders St & King St. 03 9923 5999, melbourneaquarium.com.au Discovery Melbourne 167 Franklin St. discoverymelbourne.com Melbourne Cricket Ground Brunton Av. 03 9657 8888 mcg.org.au

Melbourne Museum 11 Nicholson St, Carlton.

13 11 02

melbourne.museum.vic.gov.au National Gallery of Victoria Federation Square. ngv.vic.gov.au Old Melbourne Gaol 377 Russell St. 03 8663 7228, oldmelbournegaol.com.au Official Neighbours Tours 570 Flinders St. neighbourstour.com.au Skydive the Beach

Avenue Apartments 204 Thompson Avenue, Cowes.

03 5952 6718, visitphillipisland.com

Great Ocean Road Backpackers YHA 10 Erskine Av, Lorne.

03 5289 1070, greatoceanroadcottages.com

Beach Park Tourist Caravan Park 2 McKenzie Rd, Cowes.

03 5952 22113, beachpark.com.au

Port Campbell Hostel 18 Tregea St, Port Campbell.

03 5598 6305, portcampbellhostel.com.au

BIG4 Inverloch Holiday Park 2 Cuttriss St, Inverloch.

03 5674 1447, inverlochholidaypark.com.au

Surfside Backpackers Cnr Great Ocean Rd & Gambier St, Apollo Bay. 1800 357 263, surfsidebackpacker.com

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

03 5956 7227, phillipislandcpk.com.au

MORNINGTON

Cowes Caravan Park 164 Church St, Cowes.

03 5952 2211, cowescaravan.com.au

Bayplay Lodge 46 Canterbury Jetty Rd, Blairgowrie.

03 5988 0188, bayplay.com.au

Koala Park Resort 1825 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes.

03 5952 2176, koalaparkresort.com.au

Sorrento Foreshore Reserve Nepean Hwy. 1800 850 600, mornpen.vic.gov.au

The Island Accommodation 10-12 Phillip Island Tourist Road.

03 5956 6123 theislandaccommodation.com. au

Sorrento YHA 3 Miranda St, Sorrento.

03 5984 4323, yha.com.au

San Remo Holiday Park 4 Mary Grove, San Remo.

03 5678 5024 visitphillipisland.com

Tortoise Head Lodge French Island.

03 5980 1234, tortoisehead.net

GRAMPIANS

DANDENONG

Grampians YHA Eco Hostel Cnr Grampians & Buckler Rds, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4544, yha.com.au

Emerald Backpackers 03 5968 4086

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

03 5480 6522, yha.com.au

Tim’s Place 44 Grampians Road, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4288, timsplace.com.au

Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Ave, Mildura.

03 5022 7922, milduracitybackpackers.com.au

MILDURA

Oasis Backpackers 230 Deakin Av, Mildura.

04 0734 4251, milduraoasisbackpackers.com.au

GIPPSLAND

Amaroo Park YHA 97 Church St, Cowes.

03 5952 3620, yha.com.au Anchor Belle Holiday Park 272 Church St, Cowes.

03 5952 2258, anchorbelle.com.au

Apollo Eco Beach YHA 5 Pascoe St. 03 5237 7899, yha.com.au

17 Carlisle St, St Kilda. Prices from $34 Unique style of hostel living, combining state-of-the-art facilities in laid-back St Kilda.

Cambrai Hostel Maffra 117 Johnson St, Maffra.

1800 101 113 maffra.net.au/hostel

PHILLIP ISLAND

GREAT OCEAN RD

BASE ST KILDA

Prom Coast YHA Backpackers 0427 875 735

Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Avenue milduracitybackpackers.com.au

STRATHMERTON Riviera Backpackers YHA 669 Esplanade yha.com.au

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WALISTINGS

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PERTH STAY

CHECK IN

Billabong Backpackers Resort 381 Beaufort St. 08 9328 7720, billabongresort.com.au Britannia on William 253 William St, Northbridge.

08 9227 6000, perthbritannia.com

Grand Central Hotel Backpackers 379 Wellington St 08 9421 1123 Hay Street Backpackers 266-268 Hay St haystbackpackers.com Hotel Bambu Backpackers 75 - 77 Aberdeen St, Northbridge bambu.net.au

Emperor’s Crown 85 Stirling St, Northbridge.

1800 991 553, emperorscrown.com.au

Mountway Holiday Apartments 36 Mount St mountwayapartments.com.au Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottesloe oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au

BILLABONG BACKPACKERS RESORT

Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottlesloe.

08 9384 5111, oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au

381 Beaufort St, Highgate. Rooms from $29 The Billabong is a great place to stay for travellers. It has all the facilities you need, friendly service and a great atmosphere. What more do you need? A pool? Done.

Perth

billabongresort.com.au

Perth City YHA 300 Wellington St. 08 9287 3333, yha.com.au

Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, Northbridge.

08 9228 3755, undergroundbackpackers.com.au

The Old Swan Barracks 2-8 Francis St. 08 9428 0000, theoldswanbarracks.com

The Witch’s Hat 148 Palmerston St. 08 9228 4228, Witchs-hat.com

Backpack City and Surf 41-43 Money St backpacker.com.au Beatty Lodge 235 Vincent St beattylodge.com.au Cheviot Lodge 30 Bulwer St cheviotlodge.com

Perth Beach YHA 256 West Coast Hwy, Scarbrough yha.com.au Planet Inn Backpackers 496 Newcastle St planetinn.com.au The Shiralee Hostel 107 Brisbane St, Northbridge shiralee.com.au

Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St

coolibahlodge.com.au Easy Perth Backpacker

Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, undergroundbackpackers.com.au Wickham Retreat Backpackers 25-27 Wickham St, East Perth 08 9325 6398

4 Francis Street, Northbridge

easyperthbackpackers.com.au

YMCA Jewell House

Book online at www.integritycoachlines.com.au or call 08 9274 7464 (1800 226 339 free call W.A only)

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Integrity Coach Lines and The Flying Sandgroper have teamed up to bring you an Australian adventure you will never forget.

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HOP ON HOP OFF TICKET $365 valid for 12 months in one direction with unlimited stops!

With unlimited stopovers on all our services and Hop on Hop off ticket now available between Perth, Broome, Monkey Mia, Exmouth, Kalbarri, Karijini National Park and many more, there is no better way to travel Western Australia than with Integrity Coach Lines!

Integrity Coach Lines provide an excellent reliable coach service at a competitive price. Cheap prices for backpackers YHA VIP & Nomad members! Check us out online.

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Globe Backpackers & City Oasis Resort 561 Wellington St. 08 9321 4080, globebackpackers.com.au

One World Backpackers 162 Aberdeen St, Northbridge.

1800 188 100, oneworldbackpackers.com.au

@tnt_downunder

180 Goderich St ymcajewellhouse.com.au Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St coolibahlodge.com.au

PERTH DO

20 Labouchere Road, South Perth. 08 9474 3551, perthzoo.wa.gov.au Penguin Island 153 Arcadia Drive (corner of Penguin Road), Shoalwater, Perth.

08 9591 1333, penguinisland.com.au

Aquarium of Western Australia 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys.

08 9447 7500, aqwa.com.au

Perth Concert Hall 5 St George’s Terr., Perth. 08 9231 9900, perthconcerthall.com.au

Art Gallery of Western Australia Perth Cultural Centre/Roe St, Perth. 08 9492 6600, artgallery.wa.gov.au

St Mary’s Cathedral 17 Victoria Square,, Perth.

08 9223 1350, perthcatholic.org.au

Aviation Heritage Museum Bull Creek Drive, Air Force Memorial Estate, Perth. 08 9311 4470, raafawa.org.au Crown Perth Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood. 08 9362 7777, crownperth.com.au Kings Park & Botanic Garden bgpa.wa.gov.au Moonlight Cinema Synergy Parklan, Kings Park, Perth. moonlight.com.au Perth Mint 310 Hay St. 08 9421 7223, perthmint.com.au

St George’s Cathedral 38 St George’s Terrace, Perth. 08 9325 5766, perthcathedral.org The Perth Mint 310 Hay Street, Perth. 08 9421 7376, perthmint.com.au The WACA Nelson Crescent, East Perth.

08 9265 7222,, waca.com.au Western Australian Museum James St, 08 9212 3700, museum.wa.gov.au

Perth Zoo

Photo: Facebook

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

TOASTFACE GRILLAH On a laneway between Wellington Street and Barrack Street Toastface Grillah are serving up grilled cheese that will change the way you look at the humble toastie forever.

toastfacegrillah.com

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WALISTINGS PERTH MUSIC Amplifier Capital amplifiercapitol.com.au Astor liveattheastor.com.au Belgian Beer Cafe belgianbeer.com.au Perth Arena pertharena.com.au Metro Cityl metroconcertclub.com The Bakery nowbaking.com.au

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

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

FREO STAY

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

08 9336 9200, backpackersinnfreo.com.au The Shipwreck Galleries Cliff St, 08 9212 3700, museum.wa.gov.au Fremantle Arts Centre

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1 Finnerty Street.

08 9432 9555, fac.org.au Spare Parts Puppet Theatre 1-9 Short St. 08 9335 5044, backpackersinnfreo.com.au

ROTTNEST ISL Rottnest Island YHA Kingstown Barracks.

08 9372 9780, yha.com.au Rottnest Express 1 Emma Place North Fremantle 1300 Go Rotto rottnestexpress.com.au

MARGARET RIVER

ALBANY Albany Bayview Backpackers YHA 49 Duke St 08 9842 3388, yha.com.au Cruize-Inn 122 Middleton Rd. 08 9842 9599, cruise-inn.com

BROOME STAY Cable Beach Backpackers 12 Sanctuary Road.

1800 655 011,

cablebeachbackpackers.com Kimberley Club 62 Fredrick St 08 9192 3233,

kimberleyklub.com

MONKEY MIA Monkey Mia Dolphin Lodge Monkey Mia Road Monkey Mia 1800 653 611, monkeymia.com.au

CORAL BAY Ningaloo Club Robinson St

ningalooclub.com

NINGALOO REEF

Margaret River Lodge YHA 220 Railway Tce. 08 9757 9532, yha.com.au

Blue Reef Backpackers 3 Truscott Crescent, Exmouth 1800 621 101, aspenparks.com.au

Harmony Forest 248 Sebbes Rd. 08 9757 7055, harmonyforest.com.au

Ningaloo Club Coral Bay 08 9948 5100, ningalooclub.com

Surfpoint 12 Riedle Drive Prevally 08 9757 1777 surfpoint.com.au

Excape Backpackers YHA Murat Rd, Exmouth.

08 9949 1200, yha.com.au

ESPERANCE Blue Waters Lodge YHA 299 Goldfields Rd,

yha.com.au

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

yha.com.au

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

LAKE EYRE Taking a guided tour to the lake around midday you will experience a true phenomenon, the lake surface can often become very flat. The surface then reflects the sky in a way that leaves both the horizon and water surface virtually impossible to see. Whether you want to be floating up with the clouds or keeping your feet firmly on the ground, Lake Eyre has it all. You can take a hot air balloon at dawn over the Barossa Valley or try hiking the Heysen Trail. The 1,200 kilometre track stretches from Cape Jervis on the south coast to Parachilna Gorge in the Flinders Ranges. If being in the water is more your thing, you can dive through the wreckage of navy destroyer, ex-HMAS Hobart. A popular trail is to take the Underwater Heritage on Gulf St Vincent. This trail links four of the most historic wrecks: the Grecian, the Zanoni, Star of Greece and Norma which all sank between 1841 and 1893.

ADELAIDE STAY Adelaide Backpackers Inn 112 Carrington St. 1800 24 77 25, abpi.com.au Adelaide Central YHA 135 Waymouth St. 08 8414 3010, yha.com.au Adelaide Travellers Inn 220 Hutt St. 08 8224 0753, adelaidebackpackers.com.au Annie’s Place 239 Franklin St. 1800 818 011, anniesplace.com.au Backpack Oz 144 Wakefield St. 1800 633 307, backpackoz.com.au Blue Galah Backpackers Lvl 1, 52-62, King William St. 08) 8231 9295, bluegalah.com.au Glenelg Beach Hostel 5-7 Moseley St. Glenelg.

1800 359 181, glenelgbeachhostel.com.au

Adelaide Zoo Frome Rd. 08 8267 3255, zoossa.com.au Haigh’s Chocolates Factory tours.

153 Greenhill Rd, Parkside 1800 819 757, haighschocolates.com.au Temptation Sailing Dolphin swimming, Glenelg.

04 1281 1838 dolphinboat.com.au

BAROSSA VAL Barossa Backpackers 9 Basedow Road, Tanunda.

08 8563 0198, barossa backpackers.com.au

COOBER PEDY Opal Cave Coober Pedy Hutchinson St. 08 8672 5028, opalcavecooberpedy.com.au Radeka Down Under 1 Oliver St. 1800 633 891, radekadownunder.com.au Riba’s Underground 1811 William Creek Rd. 08 8672 5614, camp-underground.com.au

KANGAROO IS Kangaroo Island YHA 33 Middle Terrace, Penneshaw.

08 8553 1344 yha.com.au Vivonne Bay Lodge 66 Knofel Drive, Vivonne Bay 13 13 01 sealink.com.au

RIVERLAND

Coodlie Park Farmstay

Harvest Trail Lodge Loxton. 08 8584 5646, harvesttrail.com.au

08 8687 0411

Nomads on Murray Sturt Highway, Kingston on Murray.

1800 665 166, nomadsworld.com

Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience

Riverland Backpackers Labour Hire Services 08 8583 0211

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

08 8554 2785 yha.com.au

CHECK IN

Port Kenny.

coodliepark.com

Sea lion and dolphin swims.

08 8626 5017

bairdbay.com Calypso Star Charters Great white shark cage diving.

sharkcagediving.com.au Nullarbor Traveller Tours across to Perth.

1800 816 858

the-traveller.com.au Port Lincoln Tourist Park 11 Hindmarsh St. 08 8621 4444,

portlincolntouristpark.com.au Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions Great white shark cage diving.

08 8363 1788

My Place 257 Waymouth St. 1800 221 529, adelaidehostel.com.au

rodneyfox.com.au

FLINDERS RANGES

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

Adelaide Oval Home to the Donald Bradman collection.

War Memorial Drive.

08 8300 3800 adelaideoval.com.au

Flinders Highway,

08 8682 3939,

FLEURIEU PEN

Hostel 109 109 Carrington St. 1800 099 318, hostel109.com

ADELAIDE DO

EYRE PENINSULA

Berri Backpackers Sturt Highway, Berri.

08 8582 3144, berribackpackers.com.au

Angorichina Tourist Village

SHAKESPEARE HOSTEL 123 Waymouth Street. Rooms from $25 Winner of the 2011 best hostel in South Australia award at the Golden Backpacks. Located at Level 123 Waymouth Street in the heart of the Backpacker District in Adelaide’s CBD. A stones-throw from University of South Australia, Central Bus Station, Chinatown, Central Markets, Hindley Street, Convention Centre, Light Square Pubs and Clubs. Adelaide shakeys.com.au

08 8648 4842,

angorichinavillage.com.au Wilpena Pound Resort Wilpena Rd. 08 8648 0004,

wilpenapound.com.au

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

KATHERINE STAY

CHECK IN

BIG4 Katherine Holiday Park 20 Shadforth Road.

1800 501 984, big4.com.au

Darwin YHA 97 Mitchell St. 08 8981 5385, yha.com.au

Palm Court Kookaburra Backpackers Third St. 08 8972 2722

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

KATHERINE DO

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

Airborne Solutions Scenic helicopter flights.

08 8972 2345 airbornesolutions.com.au

Gecko Lodge 146 Mitchell St. 1800 811 250, geckolodge.com.au Melaleuca on Mitchell 52 Mitchell St. 1300 723 437, momdarwin.com

TODDY’S BACKPACKERS 41 Gap Rd, Alice Springs. Dorms $25 Fun, vibrant and clean hostel with 4-8 bed dorms, mixed and shared, and private rooms for the backpacker traveller.

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

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

08 8981 0700, deckchaircinema.com.au

Alice Springs

toddys.com.au

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

08 8999 8264, magnt.nt.gov.au

Oz Jet Boating Stokes Hill Wharf.

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

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

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

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

ALICE SPRINGS Alice Lodge 4 Mueller St. 08 8953 1975, alicelodge.com.au Alice Springs YHA Cnr Parsons St & Leichhardt Tce. 08 8952 8855, yha.com.au Annie’s Place 4 Traeger Ave. 1800 359 089, anniesplace.com.au

@tnt_downunder

Haven Resort 3 Larapinta Drive.

1800 794 663, alicehaven.com.au Toddy’s Resort 41 Gap Rd. 1800 027 027, toddys.com.au

ALICE DO Alice Springs Desert Park Larapinta Drive.

08 8951 8788, alicespringsdesertpark.com.au Alice Springs Reptile Centre Meet and hold lizards.

9 Stuart Terrace.

08 8952 8900, reptilecentre.com.au Outback Ballooning Hot air balloon rides.

1800 809 790, outbackballooning.com.au Royal Flying Doctor Service Base Museum and operations room.

Stuart Terrace. 08 8952 1129, flyingdoctor.net School of the Air Long-distance schooling museum.

80 Head St. 08 8951 6834, assoa.nt.edu.au The Rock Tour Uluru tours.

78 Todd St. 1800 246 345, therocktour.com.au

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

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Photo: Getty

NITMILUK NATIONAL PARK Outback Australia’s most impressive ancient sandstone region lies within the Nitmiluk National Park. The nearly 3,000sq km national park is owned by the Jawoyn Aboriginal people, who hold great ceremonial significance to the gorges and surrounding land. There are numerous walking trails ranging from strolls along the riverbanks to overnight walks and a five-day walk from Katherine Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls).

Fly to Alice Springs from SYD/MELB from

$89.95

one way with Tiger Air TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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NZ TRAVEL TRAVEL IDEAS | BIG TRIP | NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND LISTINGS NEXT STOP: QUEENSTOWN /66 Queenstown is beautiful, in that classic take-yourbreath away fashion. It is framed by dramatic mountainous formations, varying from grassy tussocks, burnt scarp slopes and snow-dusted peaks. We think it’s time you visited, don’t you?

Photos: Cardrona, Justin Steinlauf, AJ Hackett Bungy, Shotover Canyon Swing and Thinkstock.

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Queenstown NEW ZEALAND

Shotover Jet TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Cardrona

Jumping from the Kawarau Suspension Bridge

NZTRIP

A royal visit If it’s good enough for Kate and Wills, it’s good enough for us.

It is Queenstown after all... WORDS FRANCESCA BAKER

People told me that New Zealand was like England. In some ways they were right. Language, obviously. Place names are startlingly reminiscent of those back home, early settlers seeking ways to remember the land they had left. It’s green and lush, grass and fields all around. They like a beer. It gets cold (although more so in the south rather than north). But they also do things a little differently.

A beach is not just a place for a paddle – it’s one where evaporating steam reveals a hot water spring in which to bathe. Road trips take days: with no M to be stuck on, meandering journeys become something to savour. And tourist hotspots are not ice-cream-fuelled, hen-party raddled, towerblock-teeming towns, but full to the brim with mountains, lakes, and adventure.

Enter Queenstown. For a town of only 16,600 permanent residents, it sure packs a punch, compensating for its size with fame and notoriety. It’s always had its attractions. Back in the mid-19th-century, European settlers came to rest upon the banks of Lake Wakatipu, the Z-shaped glacial lake upon which Queenstown rests. William Gilbert Rees founded a

farm and small town, called ‘The Camp’, but it was in 1862, when Rees discovered gold in the Arrow River, that the rush really started. Suddenly everyone wanted to be here – and things haven’t changed. More than 1.6 million tourists come to the destination every year, the equivalent to a third of New Zealand’s population, and one hundred times that of Queenstown itself.

Queenstown is beautiful, in that take-your-breath-away fashion. It is framed by dramatic mountainous formations, varying from grassy tussocks, burnt scarp slopes and snowdusted peaks. All are apparently named after what people saw, who saw it, or things they had seen before – The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, Walter Peak, Queenstown Hill and Ben Lomand.

The highest point in the range is Double Cone (2,319 metres) with Ben Nevis (2,234 metres) just behind, and on any day mountain mist and hazy sunshine glow from the crests, the tip of what is a striking vista.

But what goes up must come down, and there are tons of ways to come down in Queenstown. This is of course the home of the bungee, and any day crazy cats can be seen flinging ›› TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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themselves off of the Kawarau Suspension Bridge, where AJ Hackett first set up shop 25 years ago. The ropes have thankfully been updated since then, but the thrills and screams no doubt are the same, as people ping on elastic towards glistening water coated rocks – and back up again.

It’s not just bungee jumping.

There’s parasailing, skydiving and tobogganing too. If you prefer your feet on the ground, walking tracks ravage all over, and for the more serious hikers hoping to tick off the ‘Great Walks’, the Routeburn and Milford tracks are within a couple of hours. A maze of mountain bike trails exist with which to explore and see the views, and local operators are more than Zip trekking willing to rent bikes upon which to vibrate down the slopes. In fact, it’s estimated that there are Shotover Canyon Swing more than 220 adventure options available to delight visitors.

All those mountains obviously means skiing is a big draw, and Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Treble Cone are all dotted with people gliding down elegantly and not-so elegantly during the season. Around 50 kilometres from Queenstown, towards the lovely Lake Wanaka and its crystal clear waters are the Cardona Ski Fields, regularly voted some of the best places places to ski in the world.

To get a taste of former farm days, head across the lake to Walter Peak High Country Farm, where tours, tea, and horse trekking are all on offer.

Trotting across rolling farmland and the higher alpine climbs is a gloriously relaxing experience, the fresh air filling the lungs and the clean grassy scent delicious.

While numerous boat operators exist, the most elegant (if not environmentally friendly) way to travel is upon the Lady of the Lake. Sailing since 1912, TSS Earnslaw is a 36-ton steamship, and as beautiful as the view is, the interior captures the imagination of many aboard, with the locomotive smoke tube boilers gassing, the pistons and rivets firing away, and brassy handles turning. Steamships 68

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have been traversing the lake since the 1860s, carrying sheep, cattle and grain from shore to shore (200 people or 1,500 sheep is the maximum capacity), but now their main role is to be a place for visitors to gaze out from the majesty of this vintage vantage point.

Synonymous with the River Shotover is the word ‘jet.’ The fast and frantic Shotover Jet tour through the canyons of the 75km long river is pure exhilaration, combining the two personality facets of Queenstown – beauty and excitement. The big red boats seat around 40 people, and shoot up and down at a pace of up to 85kph over sparkling, clear water as shallow as 10cm deep. It made Kate and Wills grin. Another way to see the river is to raft down it, and for the best experience try helirafting. Queenstown Rafting can organise the combo tour, and a short ride up to the top of the gorge in a chopper that always manages to get closer than you think it possibly can to the canyon is a perfect entrance to the start of some rapids. Blustering winds and bounding waves just make it more fun as the inflatable rafts bounce and bash down the rocks and rolling water.

Of course, it’s not all thrills and the resulting spills. Sometimes you need to kick back, and thankfully Queenstown as a whole host of places to do so. The lake front is lined with walking paths, barbecue spots and benches, and subsequently picnicking families, hand in hand couples, and pondering individuals. The path takes you through to the Botanic Gardens, home to pretty flowers, tall trees and lapping waves, as well as tennis courts and playgrounds. Snack time needs are met by the warm gooey goodness of Cookie Time (cookietime.co.nz), or you might want to check out some good old-fashioned sugar at The Remarkables Sweet Shop (remarkablesweetshop.co.nz), where bricks of fudge in all sorts of flavours are on offer. Dinner one night has to be at the worldfamous Ferg Burger (fergburger. com). Since its days as ‘hole in the wall’ in 2001 things have come a

View of the Remarkables

www.bungy.co.nz

Photos: Tourism New Zealand, Winter Festival

long way, and now the 20+ burgers are available 21 hours a day, and widely renowned as some of the very best. There’s no need to give you an address – just look out for the queue of hungry looking punters. Fishbone has been around for a while, but the catches continue to be super fresh, as befits an island where no spot is more than 125 kilometres away from the sea.

Or for more of those views, get the gondola up to the Skyline restaurant, where a buffet consisting of literally everything will give you enough sustenance to keep at the adventures for days. You might also want to indulge in a little Pinot Noir, the grape that makes up 75% of all those grown in the Central Otago region. Alpine ranges, glacial layers, and a sometimes tropical warmth make for depth of colour, profound intensity, and complex flavours that all enhance any holiday.

When it comes to bed time, as you would expect for somewhere attracting so many tourists, all sorts of options are available. For the lower budgets, Hippo Lodge is a lovely hostel, Along with the Happy Hippo offering advice around the hostel, the real draw is the view. How many places do you get to sit and stare at Lake Waikatipu with your spaghetti on toast? It’s a steep steep climb up, but worth it as you see the sunlight licking the lake. Or for something at the (much) higher end of the budget, Spire is stunning. When a bottle of chilled Moët, a bunch of fresh flowers, handmade rich dark chocolate truffles, L’Occitane cosmetics and a bowl of fresh fruit come as standard, you know you are in a spot of luxury.

All rooms have a roaring fire, a bathroom big enough to party in, thick pile carpets and a balcony on which to ponder.

Elegance itself. Ferg Burger can be delivered to your room, or head downstairs for some tasty Thai fusion food, and the No 5 bar, which has an extensive cocktail list, all being carefully and attentively muddled and mixed by the friendly bartenders, served with smiles and style to you on the wooden tables and leather chairs. It might be pricey, but do it once in your life.

Queenstown really surprised me, in the best possible way.

There’s so much to see. So much to do. So much to feel. Some is free, some less so. Some outdoors, some indoors. Some high up and some on the ground. All of it is beautiful.

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

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AUCKLAND

follow us on ever lived and experience a Maori cultural show.

09 309 0443, aucklandmuseum.com

CHECK IN

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

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

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

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

i-SITE Auckland Atrium, skycity, Cnr Federal & Victoria Sts Backpackers World Travel 16-20 Fort St, 09 300 9999, backpackersworld.com i-SITE Visitor Information 287 Queen St, 09 979 2333, aucklandnz.com Ferry Tickets Online (For inter-island ferry services) 39 Beach Rd, 0800 500 660, ferrytickets.co.nz Department of Conservation Auckland Details on tramping, camping grounds, the Gulf Islands and exploring the regional parks.

137 Quay St Cnr, Princes Wharf, open Mon-Fri (9am-5am); SatSun (10am-4pm), 09 379 6476 Airport Transport The airport is 21km from the city and shuttle buses run every half an hour.

Airbus Airport is every 20 mins.

0800 247 287, airbus.co.nz City buses Tickets and timetables are available from the 10 central city Star Mart stores.

09 366 6400, maxx.co.nz Auckland InterCity Travel Centre Buses around Auckland and the rest of New Zealand leave from here. Located beside the casino, Hobson St, 09 583 5780, intercity.co.nz Train Intercity trains arrive and depart from Britomart, 12 Queen St, Auckland.

09 366 6400, transdev.co.nz

AUCKLAND STAY Airport Skyway Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 30 Kirkbride Road, Mangere.

09 275 4443, skywaylodge.co.nz Auckland International Backpackers (BBH) 2 Churton St, Parnell. +64358 4584, aucklandinternationalbp.com Base Backpackers Auckland 229 Queen St. 09 358 4877, stayatbase.com Bamber House (BBH) 22 View Rd, Mt Eden.

09 623 4267, bbh.com BK Hostel (BBH) 3 Mercury Ln, Central.

09 307 0052, bkhostel.co.nz

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JUCY HOTEL 62 Emily Place, Auckland. From $54 Quality budget accomodation in Auckland, within walking distance of the Vector Arena, as well as major attractions and hubs.

Auckland

jucyhotel.com

City Garden Lodge (BBH) 25 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell.

09 302 0880 citygardenlodge.co.nz City Groove Backpackers (BBH) 6 Constitutional Hill, Parnell.

09 303 4768.

Kiwi International Hotel 411 Queen St. 0800 100 411, kiwihotel.co.nz Auckland Airport Kiwi Hotel 150 McKenzie Road, Mangere.

09 256 0046, kiwiairporthotel.co.nz

09 378 8990, uenukulodge.co.nz Surf ‘n’ Snow Backpackers 102 Albert St. 09 363 8889, surfandsnow.co.nz The Brown Kiwi (BBH) 7 Prosford St, Ponsonby.

09 378 0191, brownkiwi.co.nz Verandahs (BBH) 6 Hopetown St. 09 360 4180, verandahs.co.nz

Lantana Lodge (BBH) 60 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell.

09 373 4546, lantanalodge.co.nz

YHA Auckland City 18 Liverpool St. 09 309 2802, yha.co.nz

The Fat Camel (Nomads) 38 Fort St. 09 307 0181, nomadsworld.com

YHA Auckland International 5 Turner St. 09 302 8200, yha.co.nz

Borders Beyond 8 Nixon St, Grey Lynn.

09 360 9880, bordersbeyond.co.nz Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort St. 09 300 9999, nomadshostels.com Oaklands Lodge (BBH) 5A Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden.

09 638 6545, oaklands.co.nz Pentlands (BBH) 22 Pentland Ave, Mt Eden. +64 9638 7031 pentlands.co.nz Ponsonby Backpackers (BBH) 2 Franklin Rd, Ponsonby.

09 360 1311, ponsonby-backpackers.co.nz Princeton Backpackers 30 Symonds St. 09 963 8300, princeton.net.nz Queen Street Backpackers 4 Fort St. 09 373 3471, qsb.co.nz Uenuku Lodge (BBH) 217 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby.

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AUCKLAND DO Explorer Bus Sightseeing around Auckland, 0800 439 756 explorerbus.co.nz Sealink Ferries can take you all over the harbour. Info about timetables and destinations are available online on the Sealink website.

0800 732 546, sealink.co.nz America’s Cup Sailing Experience A unique opportunity to participate as crew on an actual America’s Cup yacht. Take the helm, exert energy on the grinders or simply sit back and enjoy the action as you sail the beautiful Waitemata Harbour.

The two hour sails departs daily from the Auckland Viaduct. No experience necessary.

09 359 5987, explorenz.co.nz Auckland Museum See the world’s finest collection of Maori and Pacific Island artefacts. Explore New Zealand’s natural history, discover the largest bird that

Devonport A 15-minute ferry or bus ride across the harbour on the north shore, Devonport is an idyllic setting for a picnic or a stroll along the beach.

Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World A seawater aquarium with a moving walkway through a transparent underwater cavern.

Antarctic Encounter is a recreation of an Antarctic environment where you jump on a snow mobile and tour a penguin colony, get attacked by an orca whale.

Orakei Wharf, Tamaki Drive.

0800 80 50 50, kellytarltons.co.nz Mt Eden The highest point in the city, 4km south of the city centre with spectacular views. Get there by bus.

NZ National Maritime Museum The museum celebrates NZ’s maritime heritage.

09 373 0800, nzmaritimemuseum.co.nz

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sheltered waters of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour and is world famous for its sailing and dining cruises. Join them for a coffee, lunch, dinner, Waiheke sailing experience cruise or a full-day sailing adventure and experience the “City of Sails” for what it is known for.

0800 397 567, exploregroup.net Auckland Bridge Climb Up and over the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

Westhaven Reserve, Curran St, Herne Bay. 09 360 7748, bungy.co.nz Auckland Harbour Bridge Jump NZ’s only ocean touch bungy, 40m high. Westhaven Reserve, Curran St, Herne Bay. 09 360 7748, bungy.co.nz Canyonz Ltd Explore subtropical canyons and abseil down crashing waterfalls.

0800 422 696, canyonz.co.nz New Zealand Surf Tours Learn to surf on uncrowded, beautiful beaches.

09 828 0426, newzealandsurftours.com Sky Jump Fall from the top of the 192m Sky Tower, 0800 759 586, skyjump.co.nz Sky Walk Walk around the external 1.2m wide platform, 192m up.

0800 759925, skywalk.co.nz Fullers Bay of Islands Tours One, two and three-day tours from Auckland.

09 367 9111, fullers.co.nz

Ponsonby West of the city, explore Victorian architecture and narrow streets with cafés, bars, clothes shops, art galleries and Awesome Adventures Three-day Bay of Islands tours. some lively nightlife.

0800 658 058, awesomenz.com Queen Street Auckland’s main boulevard with Beaches shops, cafés and restaurants.

Auckland is surrounded by great beaches, including Judges Bay, Whale & Dolphin Safari Kohimarama, Okahu Bay, St See whales and dolphins from Heliers Bay and popular Mission Auckland’s doorstep. The Hauraki Gulf is considered one Bay. of the most biologically and Aotea Square Markets geographically diverse marine Every Friday and Saturday at parks in the world. See Aotea Square, Queen St. NZ dolphins, whales, sea birds and/ fashion labels, retro gear, foods, or even penguins. Dolphins are Pacific-style crafts, jewellery viewed on over 90% and whales and furniture, on 75% of trips. Departs daily 09 309 2677, from the Auckland Viaduct. the-edge.co.nz Dolphin viewing guaranteed.

09 357 6032, Victoria Park Market exploregroup.co.nz 3km from the CBD, an outdoor market with fruit, veggies, Fullers Cruises books, clothes and handicrafts.

Inner harbour cruises and longer cruises to Hauraki Gulf islands, with all-day passes and hop-on, GREAT BARRIER hop-off options.

09 367 9111, This unique island destination is fullers.co.nz dominated by a native forest a network of criss-crossing tracks.

Pride of Auckland thebarrier.co.nz The Pride of Auckland operates an impressive fleet of large, Orama Oasis purpose-built yachts on the Karaka Bay Rd,

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09 429 0063, orama.org.nz Stray Possum Lodge (VIP) Stray Possum Lodge is situated on the beautiful Hauraki Gulf 09 429 0109, straypossum.co.nz

BARRIER DO Fullers Cruises Depart from the Ferry Building.

09 367 9111, fullers.co.nz Great Barrier Airlines Fly out of Auckland Airport or Auckland Shore Airfield.

09 275 6612, greatbarrierairlines.co.nz Fullers Great Barrier Explorers Cruise and tours, summer only (October-April).

09 367 9111, fullers.co.nz

WAIHEKE ISLAND A 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland. It is popular for its long sweeping beaches and craft shops.

Hekerua Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 11 Hekerua Rd, Oneroa, 09 372 8990, hekerualodge.co.nz Kina Backpackers 421 Seaview Road, Onetangi, 09 372 8971, kinabackpackers.co.nz

HELENSVILLE The hot springs here have indoor and outdoor thermal pools and waterslides.

Malolo House (BBH) 110 Commercial Rd, 09 420 7262, helensville.co.nz

HIBISCUS COAST Orewa Beach Hillary Square, Orewa 09 426 2638, orewabeach.co.nz Marco Polo Backpackers Inn (BBH) 2d Hammond Ave, Orewa North, 0800 426 8455, orewabackpackers.co.nz

SAIL ROCK Hen & Chickens Island and Sail Rock These offshore areas offer great sailing and diving. Boat trips leave from the area daily.

Waipu Wanderer (BBH) 25 St Marys Rd, 09 432 0532 bbh.co.nz

WHANGAREI Whangarei I-SITE Visitor Centre 92 Otaika Rd, 09 438 1079 whangareinz.com

WHANGAREI STAY Bunkdown Lodge (BBH) 23 Otaika Road, 09 438 8886, bunkdownlodge.co.nz Little Earth Lodge (BBH) 85 Abbey Caves Road, 09 430 6562, littleearthlodge.co.nz Piano Hill Farm (BBH) Piano Hill, Kauri, 09 433 7090, thefarm.co.nz YHA Whangarei Manaakitanga 52 Punga Grove Ave, 09 438 8954, yha.co.nz

WHANGAREI DO Dive! Tutukaka Poor Knights Islands dives, plus tours with kayaking, cave explorations, snorkelling, swimming, sea mammal-spotting.

PAIHIA Paihia is one of the most beautiful towns on the North Island with equal parts love for adventure, nature and a raucous nightlife.

AwesomeNZ Tours include Maori mythology, dolphin swimming and fast boats. Maritime Building, on the waterfront, 09 402 7421, awesomenz.com Bay of Islands i-Site The Wharf, Marsden Rd, 09 402 7345, paihia.co.nz

PAIHIA STAY Base Backpackers Bay of Islands 18 Kings Rd 09 402 7111, stayatbase.com Captain Bob’s Beachhouse (BBH) 44 Davis Crescent, 09 402 8668, capnbobs.co.nz Centabay Lodge (BBH) 27 Selwyn Rd, 09 402 7466, centabay.co.nz Admirals View Motel 2 MacMurray Rd, 09 402 6236, admiralviewlodge.co.nz Mousetrap (BBH) 11 Kings Rd, 09 402 8182, mousetrap.co.nz Peppertree Lodge (BBH) 15 Kings Rd, 09 402 6122, peppertree.co.nz Pickled Parrot Backpackers Grey’s Lane, 09 402 6222, pickledparrot.co.nz Saltwater Lodge (BBH) 14 Kings Rd, 09 402 7075, saltwaterlodge.co.nz

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

Opua Forest The DOC provides a leaflet of forest walks, which features a small stand of Kauri trees. Drive into the forest via Oromahoe Rd or walk from School Rd. Te Rawhiti Cape Brett Walkway Guided tours include experienced local Maori guides, all meals, hut accommodation, transport by boat to hut taking in the famous Hole in the Rock, Maori culture, myths and legends and hangi, capebrettwalks.co.nz Waitangi Treaty Grounds The site where the historic Treaty of Waitangi was signed.

Also see carvings that represent all Maori tribes in NZ and one of the largest ceremonial waka (canoe) in the world, launched every Waitangi Day (Feb 6).

09 402 7437, waitangi.net.nz Boat cruises & dolphin watching Cape Brett “Hole in the Rock” Cruise Four-hour cruises, dolphincruises.co.nz Dolphin Discoveries With the warmest water and friendliest dolphins (bottlenoses), this is a great place for swimming with the dolphins (conditions permitting).

The high-speed luxury catamaran offers easy access to the water and hot showers. Or do a “Hole in the Rock and Dolphin Viewing Experience” and see dolphins, whales, birds and other wildlife. Visit Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island during your island stop and explore this amazing place.

0800 000 784, exploregroup.co.nz Dune Rider Unique Adventure Tour Make your way up to Cape Reinga while traveling to the Gumdiggers Park and drive along the famous Ninety Mile Beach. Climb huge sand dunes and boogie board back down on the way and stop at the world famous Mangonui Fish Shop for fish and chips. Departing daily from Paihia. exploregroup.co.nz Sale Lion New Zealand: “The Ultimate Day Sail in the Bay” Join Lion New Zealand, NZ’s legendary maxi yacht. The friendly crew will show you the ropes and share the stories of the Bay and Legend of Sir Peter Blake.

0800 000 784, exploregroup.co.nz Awesome Cape Reinga Via Ninety Mile Beach – learn Maori myths and legends, navigate the quicksand stream, ride the dunes, visit a thousand year old forest.

0800 653 339, awesomenz.com

RUSSELL

KARIKARI PENIN

Catch a ferry to Russell, originally a sprawling fortified Maori settlement.

Information Centre End of the Pier, Russell 09 403 8020, exploregroup.co.nz

KAITAIA

RUSSELL STAY

The ideal starting point for Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach.

The Coast Road Farm Coast Rd, Whangaruru, 09 433 6894, thefarm.co.nz Pukeko Cottage 14 Brind Rd, 09 403 8498, pukekocottagebackpackers.co.nz Pipi Patch Backpackers 18 Kings Road, 09 403 7111.

A highlight of the sparsely populated town is the wonderful Maori village.

There is also an historic Maori pa (fortress) and the Kerikeri Mission Station. kerikeri.co.nz

KERIKERI STAY

Mainstreet Lodge 235 Commerce St, 09 408 1275 mainstreetlodge.co.nz

Ancient Kauri Kingdom Giant kauri tree stumps are fashioned into furniture and other trinkets.

Far North Regional Museum Featuring all kinds of goodies, like the skeleton of a giant moa bird and salvages from local shipwrecks.

Pack or Paddle Thoms Landing, 09 4098 445, packorpaddle@hotmail.com

Kerikeri Top 10 Holiday Park & Aranga Backpackers Aranga Drive off Kerikeri Rd, 0800 272 642, kerikeritop10.co.nz

AHIPARA Ahipara Holiday Park 168-170 Takehe St, 09 409 4864, ahiparaholidaypark.co.nz

Hideaway Lodge Wiroa Rd, 0800 562 746 kerikeri.co.nz Hone Heke Lodge (BBH) 65 Hone Heke Rd, 09 407 8170, honeheke.co.nz

Endless Summer Lodge (BBH) 245 Foreshore Rd, 09 409 4181, endlesssummer.co.nz

Kerikeri Farm Hostel (BBH) Springbank Rd, 09 407 6989, kerikeri.co.nz

AHIPARA DO

MATAURI BAY A very well-kept tourist secret, Matauri Bay is Maori land, home to the Ngati Kura people, and has beautiful, quiet beaches.

The Welcome Swallow Backpackers 249 Hikuru Rd, Off Matauri Bay Rd, 09 405 1019, welcomeswallow.com

Tuatua Tours Guided quad tours of Ninety Mile Beach sand dunes. 3 Main Road, 0800 494 288, tuatuatours.co.nz

HOKIANGA Heading south, you’ll hit Hokianga Harbour and the quiet twin towns of Omapere and Opononi. The Koutu Boulders are worth a look.

The Rainbow Warrior A monument to the noble but doomed Greenpeace ship, Rainbow Warrior, sits on the site of a Maori pa on the headland at Matauri Bay. Travellers come here to dive the ship’s wreck.

WHANGAROA This area was once well known for its Kauri forests, but these days it’s more about game fishing. The scenery is ruggedly spectacular and sailing cruises are popular.

Sunseeker Lodge (BBH) Old Hospital Rd, 09 405 0496, sunseekerlodge.co.nz

Pukenui Lodge Corner Wharf Rd & State Hwy 1, Houhora, 09 409 8837, pukenuilodge.co.nz

KAITAIA DO

KERIKERI

Tourist info centre Boyd Gallery, 09 405 0230, whangaroa.co.nz

The Rusty Anchor (BBH) 1 Tokerau Beach Rd, 09 406 7141, rustyanchor.hostel.com

Hokianga Information 09 405 8869, hokianga.co.nz

HOKIANGA STAY Okopako Lodge (BBH) 140 Mountain Rd, Whirinaki, 09 405 8815, bbh.co.nz Globetrekkers Lodge (BBH) 281 State Highway 12, Omapere, 09 405 8183, globetrekkerslodge.com The Tree House Backpackers Lodge 168 West Coast Rd, Motukaraka 09 405 5855, treehouse.co.nz

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DARGAVILLE

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On the road from Hokianga, the famous “Big Trees”, the native kauri trees of Waipoua Kauri Forest. Once in Dargaville, attractions include the masts from the ill-fated Rainbow Warrior and the fascinating bird sanctuary nearby.

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

Travellers Lodge (BBH) 64 Jellicoe Rd, Ruawai, 09 439 2283, bbh.co.nz Matakohe House B&B Hotel 24 Church Rd, RD1, 0800 492 452, matakohehouse.co.nz

WAIKATO Waikato District Info Centre 160 Great South Rd, Huntly, 07 828 6406, info@waikatodistrict.govt.nz, waikatodistrict.govt.nz Shekinah (BBH) 122 Pungapunga Rd, Pukekawa, 09 233 4464, shekinahbackpackers.co.nz Raglan Kopua Holiday Park Marine Parade, Raglan, 07 825 8283, stay@raglanholidaypark.co.nz, raglanholidaypark.co.nz

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

Hamilton Visitor Centre Corner Caro and Alexandra St, Hamilton, 07 839 3580 visithamilton.co.nz DOC Office 73, Rostrevor St. 07 858 1000

HAMILTON STAY Backpackers Central 846 Victoria Street, 07 839 1928, backpackerscentral.co.nz Forty Winks (BBH) 267 River Rd, Claudelands, 07 855 2033, bbh.co.nz

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WAITOMO

JUNO HALL 600 Waitomo Caves Rd, Waitomo. Dorms from $27 Juno Hall is directly across the road from The Original Black Water Rafting Company and next door to Waitomo Adventures caving base.

Kaihu Farm (BBH) 334 State Highway 12, Kaihu, 09 439 4004.

MATAKOHE

TE KUITI STAY Casara Mesa Backpackers (BBH) Mangarino Rd, 07 878 6697, bbh.co.nz

Otorohanga kiwi House & Native Bird Park 20 Alex Telfer Drive, 07 873 7391, kiwihouse.org.nz

DARGAVILLE STAY

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

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

Otorohanga Visitor Info Centre 27 Turongo St, 07 873 8951, otorohanga.co.nz

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

Waitomo

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J’s Backpackers (BBH) 8 Grey Street, 07 856 8934, jsbackpackers.co.nz Eagle’s Nest Backpackers 937 Victoria St, 07 838 2704, eaglesbackpackers.co.nz Microtel YHA 140 Ulster St, 07 957 1848, microtel.co.nz YWCA Hostel Cnr Clarence & Pembroke St, 07 838 2219, hamilton.ywca.org.nz

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

Gold coin donations welcomed.

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

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

CAMBRIDGE This very Olde English town with its town square and abundance of trees is in the heart of Waikato. The region is famous for its horses and jetboating.

Cambridge Info Centre Cnr Queen and Victoria Sts, 07 823 3456 cambridge.co.nz

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

Raglan Information Centre 2 Wainui Rd,

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07 825 7076, ragland.org.nz

RAGLAN STAY Solscape Eco Retreat Backpackers 611 Wainui Rd, 07 825 8268, solscape.co.nz Raglan Backpackers 6 Wi Neera St, 07 825 0515, raglanbackpackers.co.nz Karioi Backpacker Lodge (VIP, BBH) & Raglan Surfing School 5 Whaanga Rd, Whale Bay, 07 825 7873, karioilodge.co.nz Dream View Farmstays 430 Te Hutewai Rd, 07 825 8186 dreamview.co.nz Raglan Kopua Holiday Park 61 Marine Parade, 07 825 8283, raglanholidaypark.co.nz Raglan Farmhouse and Flashpackers 61 Marine Parade, 07 825 8747, raglanfarmstay.com

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

Te Awamutu Info Centre 1 Gorst Ave, 07 871 3259, teawamutuinfo.com Te Awamutu District Museum 135 Roche St. 07 872 0085 tamuseum.org.nz

KAWHIA The main attraction of this peaceful port town, 55km south of Raglan, is the Maketu Marae where you can experience the rich cultural tapestry of NZ’s indigenous history.

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

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

WAITOMO STAY Juno Hall (BBH) 600 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 878 7649 junowaitomo.co.nz Kiwi Paka Hotel Caves 256, Access Rd, 07 878 3395 waitomokiwipaka.co.nz Rap Raft & Rock Backpackers (BBH) 95 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 873 9149, bbh.co.nz

WAITOMO DO Dundle Hill Walk A two-day walk through native bush; limestone outcrops includes overnight with spectacular views at Kays Cabin.

07 878 7640 dundlehillwalk.com Marakopa Falls, Managapohue Natural Bridge and Piri Piri Cave, 30 minutes drive from Waitomo.

Rap Raft ‘n’ Rock Blackwater adventures combining abseiling, rafting, glowworms, caving and rockclimbing all in one five-hour adventure.

0800 228 372, caveraft.com The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co Cave tubing in the blackness of the Ruakuri Cave river. 585 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 878 6219, waitomo.com

TE KUITI

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

Otorohanga Visitor Info Centre 27 Turongo St, otorohanga.co.nz

OROMANDEL PEN A series of towns loop around the peninsula, broken by rolling green hills. Highlights include Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove and the cosy little Coromandel township.

THAMES A great canyoning spot, with loads of natural pools and waterslides.

Information Thames 206 Poland St, 07 868 7284 thamesinfo.co.nz DOC Office Pahau St, 07 867 9180 doc.govt.nz

THAMES STAY Dickson Holiday Park 115 Victoria St, 07 868 7308, Gateway Backpackers (BBH) 209 Mackay St, 07 868 6339, bbh.co.nz Sunkist International Backpackers 506 Brown St, 07 868 8808, sunkistbackpackers.co.nz Te Aroha YHA Hostel Miro Street, Te Aroha (south of Thames), 07 884 8739, yha.co.nz

COROMANDEL Some 55km north of Thames is the town of Coromandel, home to the popular Driving Creek Railway.

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

CORO STAY Anchor Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 448 Wharf Rd, 07 866 7992, anchorlodgecoromandel.co.nz Black Jack Backpackers (BBH) Kuaotunu, 07 866 2988, black-jack.co.nz

Te Kuiti Information Centre Rora St, 07 878 8077.

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

Dept of Conservation 78 Taupiri Street, 07 878 1080.

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

Tiffany’s Cafe, 241 Rora St, 07 878 7640

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

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Coromandel Top 10 Holiday Park (BBH) 636-732 Rings Rd, 07 866 8830, coromandeltop10.co.nz Tui Lodge (BBH) 60 Whangapoua Rd, 07 866 8237, coromandeltuilodge.co.nz

OPOUTERE This is a good place to go to just chill out. The beach here is glorious and generally empty. Skinny dip anyone?

YHA Opoutere 389 Opoutere Rd, 07 865 9072, yha.co.nz

WHANGAMATA A real surfie town, Whangamata has one of the best surf beaches in New Zealand and a laidback atmosphere to match.

Whangamata Info Centre 616 Port Rd, 07 865 8340 Southpacific Accommodation 245 Port Rd, 07 865 9580, thesouthpacific.co.nz Whangamata Backpackers Hostel (BBH) 227 Beverley Tce, 07 865 8323 Whangamata-backpackers.co.nz

WHITIANGA Whitianga, perched on pretty Mercury Bay, is the most popular stop-off point for travellers on the Coromandel. You can learn to make your very own bone carving, dive and surf to your heart’s content.

Whitianga Information Centre 118 Oceanview Rd, 09 372 1234 whitianga.co.nz Baywatch Backpackers (VIP) 22 The Esplanade, 07 866 5481, whitianga.co.nz/baywatch Cathedral Cove Lodge 41 Harsant Ave, Hahei Beach, 07 866 3889, cathedralcove.co.nz Cat’s Pyjamas Backpackers (BBH) 12 Albert St, 07 866 4663, cats-pyjamas.co.nz Fernbird (BBH) 24 Harsant Ave, Hahei, 07 866 3080, bbh.co.nz On the Beach Backpackers Lodge (BBH, YHA) 46 Buffalo Beach Rd, 07 866 5380, onthebeachbackpackers.co.nz Seabreeze Tourist Park (BBH) 1043 SH25 Tairua-Whitianga Rd, 07 866 3050

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

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

Tauranga i-site 95 Willow St, 07 578 8103 bayofplenty.co.nz Department of Conservation 253 Chadwick Rd West, 07 578 7677

TAURANGA STAY Appletree Cottage 47 Maxwell Rd, 07 576 4001 appletreebackpackers.co.nz

Just The Ducks Nuts Backpackers (BBH) 6 Vale St, 07 576 1366, justtheducksnuts.co.nz

TE PUKE STAY Hairy Berry Backpacker Hostel 2 No One Rd, Te Puke, 07 573 8015, work@hairyberrynz.com

Loft 109 (BBH) 8/109 Devonport Rd, 07 579 5638, loft109.co.nz

Kiwi Corral Backpackers 26 Young Road, 07 573 4530, kiwicorral.co.nz

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

Blue Tide Beachfront Retreat 7 Te Awhe Rd, Maketu Beach, 07 533 2033, bluetides.co.nz

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

TE PUKE DO Kiwifruit Country Young Rd, 07 573 6340, kiwifruitcountry.co.nz

TAURANGA DO Butler’s Swim With Dolphins 101 Te Awanui Dr, 0508 288 537 Waimarino Adventure Park 07 576 4233, waimarino.com

Harbourside City Backpackers (BBH) 105 The Strand, 07 579 4066, backpacktauranga.co.nz

Coyote Bar and Restaurant 107 The Strand, 07 578 8968.

Bell Lodge (BBH) 39 Bell St, Judea, 07 578 6344, bell-lodge.co.nz

Te Puke Information Centre 130 Jellicoe St, 07 573 9172 tepuke.co.nz

TE PUKE

Gotcha Paintball, 720 State Highway 33, Paengaroa, 022 649 1158

WHAKATANE For a very different adventure, visit White Island, an active volcano where sulphur-lipped fumeroles and roaring steam vents create a stark wonderland. whakatane.com Karibu Backpackers (BBH) 13 Landing Rd, 07 307 8276 Whakatane Hotel 79 The Strand, 07 307 1670

Become part of the legend with New Zealand’s original Black Water Rafting company. Experience the exhilarating world of ancient caves, rivers, waterfalls and breath taking glowworms.

Climb, leap and float with the Black Labyrinth or descend into the black, bottomless depths with the ultimate caving tour, the Black Abyss. Or try our newest adventure, the Black Odyssey, a caving and high wire ropes tour, that will push you to the limit.

NEW!

BOOK NOW! 0800 228 464 +64 7 878 6219 www.waitomo.com

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NORTHISLAND Windsor Lodge Backpackers 10 Merritt St, Whakatane, 07 308 8040, windsorlodge-backpackers.co.nz

WHAKATANE DO Dive White 168 The Strand, 0800 348 394, divewhite.co.nz White Island Tours Departs Whakatane daily.

15 The Strand.

07 308 9588 whiteisland.co.nz The Wharf Shed Restaurant 2/2 The Strand E. 07 308 5698 Roquette Restaurant & Bar 23/29 Quay St. 07 307 0722 Wallys on the Wharf 2 The Strand, 07 307 0722, wallysonthewharf.co.nz

ROTORUA Rotorua is a must for three reasons: the abundance of accessible Maori culture, the steaming volcanic scenery and adrenalin thrills.

Tourism Rotorua & Visitor Info Centre 1167 Fenton St, 07 348 5179 rotoruanz.com

ROTORUA STAY Base Backpackers Rotorua 1286 Arawa St, 07 348 8636, stayatbase.com Cactus Jack Backpackers 1210 Haupapa St, 0800 122 228 cactusjackbackpackers.com YHA Rotorua 1278 Haupapa St, 07 349 4088, yha.co.nz Astray Motel & Backpackers 1202 Pukuatua St, 07 348 1200, astray.co.nz Blarney’s Rock Backpackers 1210 Tutanekai St, 07 343 7904, blarneysrock.com Crash Palace Backpackers 1271 Hinemaru St, 07 348 842, crashpalace.co.nz Kiwipaka 60 Tarewa Rd, 07 347 0931, kiwipaka.co.nz

Agroventures Five adrenalin activities in one adventure park, including bungy jumping, sprint boats and a wind tunnel.

1335 Paradise Valley Rd. 07 357 4747, agroventures.co.nz Hell’s Gate Mud baths to heal and stimulate your body hellsgate.co.nz Kaitiaki Adventures Extreme whitewater activities.

Sledging and rafting trips on the Kaituna and Rangitaiki Rivers, 0800 338 736, kaitiaki.co.nz Off Road NZ Sprint car racing, Monster 4X4, 4WD Bush Safari and more, 07 332 5748, offroadnz.co.nz Polynesian Spa Historical hot mineral water bathing spa on the edge of Lake Rotorua, 07 348 1328, polynesianspa.co.nz Raftabout Whitewater rafting and sledging, 0800 723 822, raftabout.co.nz Skyline Skyrides Spectacular Get the best views and luge down 5km of tracks, or take the 150ft skyswing, 07 347 0027, skylineskyrides.co.nz

Whakarewarewa Thermal Village Maori village set amidst a landscape of geothermal wonders. Take a guided tour, see a cultural performance, check out Maori art.

07 349 3463, whakarewarewa.com

LAKE TAUPO Taupo Visitor Centre 30 Tongariro St, 07 376 0027, greatlaketaupo.com

TAUPO STAY Berkenhoff Lodge 75 Scannell St, 07 378 4909, berkenhofflodge.co.nz Riverstone Backpackers 222 Tautahanga Rd, 07 386 7004, riverstonebackpackers.com Rainbow Lodge 99 Titiraupenga St, 07 378 5754, rainbowlodge.co.nz Finns Global Backpackers 8 Tuwharetoa St, 07 377 0044, finnsglobal.co.nz Wairakei Lodge State Highway, 0800 737 678, budgetaccommodationtaupo. co.nz

Waimangu Volcanic Valley The location of the Pink and White Terraces which were destroyed in the 1886 volcanic eruption. waimangu.co.nz

Sportsman Lodge Backpackers Retreat 15 Taupahi Rd, 0800 366 208, sportsmanslodge.co.nz

Wet ‘n’ Wild Rafting Guided rafting options on five different rivers – the Wairoa, Rangitaiki, Kaituna, Motu and Mohaka, 0800 462 7238, wetnwildrafting.co.nz

Base Taupo 7 Tuwharetoa St, 07 377 4464, stayatbase.com

Zorb Rotorua Get harnessed inside the perspex Zorb before rolling head-over-heels downhill, 07 357 5100, zorb.com

MAORI CULTURE

Oasis Hostel/Backpackers 33A Tarewa Rd, 07 343 6563, oasishostel.co.nz Rotorua Central Backpackers 1076 Pukuatua St, 07 349 3285, rotoruacentralbackpackers.co.nz

NZ Maori Arts & Crafts Institute 07 348 9047 tepuia.com

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Tamaki Maori Village New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Experience!

Experience an evening of ceremonial ritual, powerful cultural performance, storytelling & hangi feasting.

Hinemaru St, 07 349 2099 tamakimaorivillage.co.nz

Waikite Hot Pools Natural hot spring water bathing. Provides private spas, BBQ area and campground facilities, 20 minutes south of Rotorua. hotpools.co.nz

While you’re here, take the opportunity to see how the Maori lived before European settlment.

The Maori Arts and Crafts Institute in Whakarewarewa is a good place to begin . nzmaori.co.nz.

Planet Nomad Backpackers 1080 Eruera St, 07 350 2550, rotoruaplanetbackpackers.co.nz

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ROTORUA DO

BOOK NOW!

Taupo Urban Retreat 65 Heu Heu St, 0800 872 261, tur.co.nz Tiki Lodge 104 Tuwharetoa St, 0800 845 456, tikilodge.co.nz YHA Taupo 56 Kaimanawa St, 07 378 3311, yha.co.nz Silver Fern Lodge 118 Tamamutu St, 07 377 4929, silverfernlodge.co.nz Lake Maraetai Lodge 5 Totara Terrace, 07 882 8940, lake-maraetai-lodge.co.nz

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TAUPO DO Craters of the Moon One of the most geothermally active areas in the region, full of boiling mud and steaming craters. Wairakei Park. cratersofthemoon.co.nz Huka Falls Take a relaxing walk up to Huka Falls where the water pours over the 35ft drop at up to 62,000 gallons per second. hukafalls.com

@tnt_downunder The Crossing Backpackers Erua Rd East, 07 892 2894, thecrossingbackpackers.co.nz Howards Lodge (BBH) Carroll St, National Park, 07 892 2827, howardslodge.co.nz Skotel Alpine Resort Whakapapa Village, 07 892 3715, skotel.co.nz

Hukafalls Jet Jetboating by the falls, 0800 485 2538, hukafallsjet.com

National Park Backpackers YHA (BBH) 4 Finlay St. The hostel runs transport to the Tongariro Crossing, 07 892 2870, npbp.co.nz

Rock ‘n’ Ropes Ropes Courses including the trapeze and Giant Swing. At Crazy Catz on Highway 5. 0800 244 508, rocknropes.co.nz

Pipers Lodge 18 Millar St, National Park Village, 07 8922 777, piperslodge.co.nz

Taupo Bungy Bungy from a platform 47m above the Waikato River. 202 Spa Rd. 0800 888 408, taupobungy.com

Ski Haus Carroll St, McKenzie St, 07 892 2854, skihaus.co.nz

Tongariro Crossing Transport and National Park Links From Taupo and Turangi during summer months (NovMay). 07 377 0435, thetongarirocrossing.co.nz Taupo Tandem Skydiving Skydive from up to 15,000 feet (over one minute freefall). Free shuttle, DVD and digital photos.

Yellow Hangar, Taupo Airport.

0800 275 934, taupotandemskydiving.com

TURANGI On the southern shores of Lake Taupo, Turangi is known as the trout fishing capital of the world. It offers heaps of outdoor adventure activities and is a good base for venturing into the Tongariro National Park.

Turangi Visitor Centre Tongariro St, 07 376 0027, turangi.co.nz

TURANGI STAY Turangi Kiwi Holiday Park 13 Te Reiti Tamara Grove, 07 386 8754, turangiholidaypark.co.nz Judges Pool Motel 92 Taupahi Rd, 07 386 7892, judgepoolmotel.co.nz Settlers Motel 24 Arahori St, 07 386 7745, settlersmotelturangi.co.nz Asure Parklands Motorlodge Cnr Arahori St & State Hwy 1, 07 386 7515, parklandsmotorlodge.co.nz

MT RUAPEHU The park’s showcase is Mt Ruapehu, an active volcano towering at 2,796m.

Ruapehu Visitors’ Centre 54 Clyde St, 06 385 8427 visitruapehu.com Whakapapa Visitor Centre SH 48, Whakapapa Village, 07 892 3729 visitruapehudc.govt.nz

RANGITIKEI The Rangitikei District is a top destination for adventure sports.

Amongst stunning scenery, you can navigate grade five whitewater and take the leap of elasticated faith from an 80m bungy.

Rangitikei Farmstay 422 Makuhou Rd, 06 327 4495, rangitikeifarmstay.govt.nz River Valley Dorms Makuhou Rd 06 388 1444, rivervalley.co.nz

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

0800 802 864 River Valley Rafting and horse trekking.

06 388 1444, thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz

OPOTIKI

TONGARIRO

Opotiki Information Centre Cnr St John and Elliot Sts, 07 315 3031 opotikinz.com

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

Central Oasis Backpackers 30 King St, 07 315 5165, centraloasis@hotmail.com

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Fruit Forest Studio 197 Omarumutu Rd, 07 315 8143, fruitforest.co.nz

EAST CAPE As you head around the Cape the towns get tinier and the scenery more dramatic. At Te Araroa, you can thead around to the East Cape Lighthouse.

Brians Place (BBH) 21 Potae St, Tokomaru Bay, 06 864 5870, bbh.co.nz Maraehako Bay Retreat (BBH) SH35, Whanarua Bay, 07 325 2648. maraehako.co.nz Wainui Beach Motel 34 Wairere Rd, 06 868 5882, wainuibeachmotel.co.nz

GISBORNE Flying Nun Backpackers (BBH) 147 Roebuck Rd, 06 868 0461, bbh.co.nz YHA Gisborne 32 Harris St, 06 867 3269, yha.co.nz

WAIROA Wairoa Visitor Information Centre Queen St, 06 838 7440 Haere Mai Cottage (BBH) 49 Mitchell Rd, 06 838 6817 DOC office for hut bookings Lake Waikaremoana, 06 837 3900

NAPIER Napier is a beautiful, surprising city.

Its “pleasing to the eye” status is actually the result of an enormous earthquake which meant the entire town had to be rebuilt.

Visitor Info Centre 100 Marine Parade, 06 834 1911 Depart of Conservation Office Marine Parade, 06 834 3111

NAPIER STAY Aqua Lodge (BBH) 53 Nelson Cres, 06 835 4523, bbh.co.nz Criterion Art Deco Backpackers (VIP, Roamfree) 48 Emerson St, 06 835 2059, criterionartdeco.co.nz Napier Prison Backpackers (BBH) 55 Coote Rd, 06 835 9933, getnicked@napierprison.com Waterfront Lodge & Backpackers (BBH) 217 Marine Pd, 06 835 3429, napierbackpackers.co.nz YHA Napier 277 Marine Parade, 06 835 7039, yha.co.nz

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

A1 Backpackers (BBH) 122 Stortford St, 06 873 4285, bbh.co.nz Glenross Lodge (BBH) Route 52, Rakaunui, 06 376 7288, bbh.co.nz Lochlea Farmstay (BBH) 344 Lake Rd, Wanstead, 06 8554 816 bbh.co.nz The Rotten Apple Backpackers (BBH) 114 Heretaunga St, 06 878 4363, rottenapple.co.nz AJ’s Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 405 Southland Rd, 06 878 2302, bbh.co.nz

TARANAKI Best known for its snow-capped mountain, Mt Taranaki. Peaceful and impressive, Taranaki has skifields, excellent surf beaches, great walking and climbing.

MOKAU Palm House Backpackers (BBH) 06835 7039, taranaki-bakpak.co.nz

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

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

PLYMOUTH STAY Eco Inn (BBH) 671 Kent Rd, between Egmont Village and New Plymouth on SH3.

06 752 2765 bbh.co.nz Egmont Lodge (BBH, YHA) 12 Clawton St, 06 753 5720, yha.co.nz bbh.co.nz Seaspray House (BBH) 13 Weymouth St, 06 759 8934, bbh.co.nz Ducks & Drakes Backpackers (BBH) 48 Lemon St, 06 758 0404 bbh.co.nz Sunflower Lodge (BBH) 33 Timandra St, 06 758, 2842 bbh.co.nz

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

MT TARANAKI Stratford Heritage Lodge 103 Miranda St, 06 765 7482, eastern-taranaki.co.nz Taranaki Accommodation Lodge (BBH) 7 Romeo St, Stratford, 06 765 5444, info@mttaranakilodge.co.nz

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

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

SOUTH TARANAKI Information South Taranaki 55 High St, Hawera, 0800 111 323, southtaranaki.com Wheatly Downs Farmstay Backpackers (BBH) 484 Ararata Rd, Hawera, 06 278 6523, bbh.co.nz

WHANGANUI

Department of Conservation Office 717 Tremaine Ave, 06 350 9700

WELLY DO Cable car Walk down Lambton Quay and you will see a sign for the cable car which departs every 10 minutes past Kelburn Park to the Botanic Gardens, 04 472 2199

Grandma’s Place (BBH) 146 Grey St, 06 358 6928, bbh.co.nz Peppertree Hostel (BBH) 121 Grey St, 06 355 4054, bbh.co.nz

Cosmic Corner Funk Store The funkiest store in the universe. Check out the legal highs and chat to the staff, who will happily point you in the right direction for parties, events and scenic spots.

215 Cuba St, 04 801 6970, cosmiccorner.co.nz

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

Wellington Visitor Info Centre Corner of Victoria & Wakefield Sts, 04 802 4860, wellingtonnz.com DOC Information Centre 18 Manners St, 04 384 7770 Ferry to the South Island Boats to Picton on the South Island. Ferries can be booked up well in advance in holiday periods.

Ferry Tickets Online 186 Victoria St, 0800 500 660, ferrytickets.co.nz

WELLY STAY Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. 04 801 5666 stayatbase.com Cambridge Hotel (BBH) 28 Cambridge Tce. 04 385 8829, cambridgehotel.co.nz Downtown Wellington Backpackers (BBH) 1 Bunny St. 04 473 8482 bbh.co.nz

Zealandia Many of New Zealand’s rarest birds, reptiles and insects are living freely in this awardwinning conservation safe haven. Look for kiwis on a guided tour by torchlight. Times vary and bookings are essential.

Waiapu Rd, Karori. 04 920 9200, visitzealandia.com Mount Victoria The views are breathtaking. It’s damn windy so make sure you’re wearing heavy shoes. Walk, drive or bus it.

Museum of Wellington City & Sea Queens Wharf, 04 472 8904 Parliament House Free tours. Visit the Beehive, a uniquely designed centre of government with a distinct style of architecture, 04 471 9503 Te Papa – The National Museum Experience the earthquake simulation room, find out what the early settlers went through and visit Te Marae, Te Papa’s living modern marae.

Free entry, Cable St, 04 381 7000, tepapa.govt.nz

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

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

Tamara Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 24 Somme Pde, 06 347 6300, tamaralodge.com

Wellywood Backpackers 58 Tory St, 04 381 3899, wellywoodbackpackers.co.nz

Wellington Zoo Located in Newtown and home to a wide variety of weird and wonderful animal and bird life, 04 381 6755

Nomads Capital 118/120 Wakefield St. 0508 666 237, nomadscapital.com

Harbour cruises The harbour is a handsome thing and the best way to fully appreciate its beauty is by boat.

Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 McDonald Cres.

04 384 3041, backpackerswellington.co.nz

Wellington Rover Tours Small group day tours exploring Wellington, its stunning rugged coastline and the Lord of the Rings locations. 021 426 211, wellingtonrover.co.nz

Whanganui National Park The major attraction is the Whanganui River, snaking through picturesque scenery.

Explore with a kayak or riverboat tour.

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

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

Rowena’s Lodge 115 Brougham St. 04 385 7872, wellingtonbackpackers.co.nz Worldwide Backpackers (BBH) 291 The Terrace.

04 802 5590, worldwidenz.co.nz YHA Wellington City 292 Wakefield St. 04 801 7280 yha.co.nz

Beaches Wellington’s waterfront has cafés, restaurants and parks.

Oriental Bay is good for a dip, but the water is cold and not always clean. It’s also good for a walk along the foreshore. If you are desperate for a swim, Scorching Bay is good or head up the coast towards Otaki where the best beaches in the region are found.

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

ABEL DO Wilsons Abel Tasman Sea kayaking, water taxis and lodge accommodation.

03 528 2027, abeltasman.co.nz Abel Tasman Kayaks Ltd 0800 527 8022 abeltasmankayaks.co.nz

NELSON Nelson is seen as the “sunshine capital” of NZ. Home to a string of attractive beaches, Nelson is only a short drive away from the famous Abel Tasman National Park. The town boasts great cafés and a strong artistic subculture. Nelson’s great climate is conducive to fruit growing and travellers can find plenty of work in the area.

Nelson Visitor Centre Cnr Trafalgar & Halifax St, 03 548 2304, nelsonnz.com Airport Shuttle supershuttles.co.nz Nelson City Taxis 03 548 8225

NELSON STAY Amber House B&B 46 Weka St, 021 202 4961, amberhouse.co.nz Accents on the Park (BBH/VIP) 335 Trafalgar Square.

03 548 4335, accentsonthepark.com Almond House (BBH) 63 Grove St. 03 545 6455, almondbackpackers.co.nz Alpine Lodge St Arnaud.

03 521 1869, alpinelodge.co.nz Beach Hostel (BBH) 25 Muritai St. 03 548 6817, nelsonbeachhostel.50megs.com The Bug (BBH) 226 Vanguard St. 03 539 4227 thebug.co.nz The Customhouse (BBH) 252 Haven Rd. 03 545 8365, customhousenelson.co.nz Footprints by the Sea (BBH) 31 Beach Rd, Tahuna Beach.

03 546 5441, footprints.co.nz Tramways Hotel Nelson 66 Trafalgar St, 03 548 7049, tramwayshotel.co.nz Honey Suckle House (BBH) 125 Tasman St. 03 548 7576 bbh.co.nz

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Hu Ha Bikerpackers (BBH) State Highway 6, Glenhope.

03 548 2707, bbh.co.nz The Palace Backpackers (BBH) 114 Rutherford St. 03 548 4691, thepalace.co.nz Paradiso (BBH) 42 Weka St. 0800 269 667, backpackernelson.co.nz Courtesy Court Motel 26/30 Gold Rd, 03 548 5114, courtesycourt.co.nz The Honesy Lawyer Country Pub 1 Point Rd, Monaco, 03 547 4070, honestlawyer.co.nz

BOOK NOW! MOTUEKA STAY Happy Apple 500 High St, 03 528 8652, happyapplebackpackers.co.nz Avalon Manor Motels 314/316 High St, 0800 282 566 avalonmotels.co.nz Eden’s Edge Backpackers (BBH) 137 Lodder Lane, Riwaka.

03 528 4242, motuekabackpackers.co.nz Motueka Garden Motel 71 King Edward St, 0800 101 911, motmotel.co.nz

Shortbread Cottage (BBH) 33 Trafalgar St. 03 546 6681

Hat Trick Lodge Backpackers 25 Wallace St. 03 528 5353, hattricklodge.co.nz

Tasman Bay Backpacker Hostel 10 Weka St. 03 548 7950, tasmanbaybackpackers.co.nz

Laughing Kiwi (BBH) 310 High St. 03 528 9229, laughingkiwi.co.nz

Trampers Rest (BBH) 31 Alton St. 03 545 7477

Old Macdonald’s Farm Holiday Park 03 527 8288, oldmacs.co.nz

Idesia B&B 14 Idesia Grove, Richmond, 03 544 0409

The White Elephant (BBH) 55 Whakarewa St. 03 528 6208, whiteelephant.co.nz

YHA Nelson 59 Rutherford St, 03 545 9988, yha.co.nz

Equestrian Lodge Motel 2 Avalon Ct, 03 528 9369

NELSON DO Abel Tasman Kayaks Ltd 0800 527 8022 abeltasmankayaks.co.nz Happy Valley 4x4 Motorbike Adventures Tours around spectacular private farm on chunky fourwheel motorbikes.

03 545 0304, happyvalleyadventures.co.nz Kaiteriteri kayaks Transport from Nelson.

03 527 8383, seakayak.co.nz Skydive Abel Tasman Tandem jumps from 13,000ft over Abel Tasman.

0800 422 899, skydive.co.nz

NELSON LAKES Located 118km south-west of Nelson, the park comprises Lake Rotoroa and Lake Rotoiti, and is surrounded by forests and mountains. Apart from tramping and skiing at Rainbow Valley and Mt Robert in winter, the lakes offer fishing and other water activities.

MOTUEKA

MOTUEKA DO Wilsons Abel Tasman 265 High St, 03 528 2027, abeltasman.co.nz Abel Tasman Kayaks Ltd 0800 527 8022 abeltasmankayaks.co.nz

TAKAKA Known as the “Heart of the Parks”, the much underrated Golden Bay region is a place of considerable natural beauty. If you venture slightly out of Takaka you will see the Te Waikoropupu (Pupu Springs), one of the largest freshwater springs in the world.

Information Centre Willow St, 03 525 9136 Dept of Conservation Office 62 Commercial St, 03 525 8026

TAKAKA STAY Nirvana Lodge (BBH, YHA) 25 Motupipi St. 03 525 8766, nirvanalodge.co.nz Aquapackers (BBH) Anchorage Bay, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 0800 430 744, aquapackers.co.nz

follow us on The Rocks chalets 2086 Takaka Valley Hwy, 03 525 8096, travelbug.co.nz

The Jugglers Rest (BBH) 8 Canterbury St. 03 573 5570, bbh.co.nz

River Inn (BBH) Golden Bay. 03 525 9425 riverinn.co.nz

Fat Cod Backpackers 9 Auckland St, 03 573 7788, fatcodbackpackers.co.nz

Shambhala Retreat Hwy 60, Onekaka. 03 525 8463, shambhala.co.nz

KAHURANGI NP The second-largest national park in NZ, Kahurangi includes the Heaphy Track. There are more than 100 bird species and an impressive cave system to be seen here. For info see the Nelson DOC office.

COLLINGWOOD North-west of Takaka is the tiny community of Collingwood (the people aren’t particularly small, their numbers are), a good base for expeditions to Farewell Spit.

The Innlet (BBH) 839 Pakawau Main Rd, 03 524 8040, bbh.co.nz Somerset House (BBH) 10 Gibbs Rd. 03 524 8624, backpackerscollingwood.co.nz

FAREWELL SPIT Arching east from the top of Golden Bay, this is a sand bar of epic proportions, home to some of the largest sanddunes in the world and some amazing birdlife.

Golden Bay Visitor Centre 03 524 8454

MARLBOROUGH The Marlborough Sounds are a beautiful labyrinth of islands and bays, serving as an impressive gateway to the South Island. Hire a kayak to paddle the coves in style, or go swimming with the dolphins.

Anakiwa Backpackers (BBH) 410 Anakiwa Rd. 03 574 1388, anakiwabackpackers.co.nz Hopewell (BBH) Kenepuru Rd. 03 573 4341, hopewell.co.nz The Partage Resort Hotel Kenepuru Sound. 0800 275 373, portage.co.nz

PICTON This pretty town is the opening to the South Island, where the North Island ferry comes in, a centre for the many activities in Queen Charlotte Sound.

This is an alternative hang-out for creative types and those seeking to veer off life’s fast lane. Most people use Motueka as a base to launch an assault on Abel Tasman National Park, but if you take the time to look around your efforts will be well rewarded. Try Marahau Beach and Cobb Valley.

Kiwiana (BBH) 73 Motuipipi St. 03 525 7676

Atlantis Backpackers (BBH) 42 London Quay, 03 573 7390, atlantishostel.co.nz

Motueka i-SITE Visitors Centre 20 Wallace St, 03 528 6543, motuekaisite.co.nz

Kanuka Ridge (BBH) 21 Moss Rd, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 03 527 8435, abeltasmanbackpackers.co.nz

The Buccaneer Lodge 314 Waikawa Rd, 03 573 5002, buccaneerlodge.co.nz

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Golden Bay Barefoot Backpackers (BBH) 114 Commercial St. 03 525 7005, bare-foot.co.nz

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Airport shuttle bus 03 573 7125

PICTON STAY

Sequoia Lodge (BBH, VIP) 3 Nelson Sq. 03 573 8399, sequoialodge.co.nz Atlantis Backpackers 42 London Quay, 03 573 7390, atlantisbackpackers.co.nz The Villa (BBH) 34 Auckland St. 03 573 6598, thevilla.co.nz Tombstone Backpackers (BBH) 16 Gravesend Place. 03 573 7116, tombstonebp.co.nz Parklands Marina Holiday Park 10 Beach Rd, 03 573 6343, parktostay.co.nz

PICTON DO Dolphin Watch Encounters Picton Foreshore, 03 573 8040, naturetours.co.nz Marlborough Sounds Adventure Company 03 573 6078, malboroughsounds.co.nz Southern Wilderness NZ Guided walk, wine trek and sea kayaking specialists.

0800 666 044, southernwilderness.com EcoWorld Aquaium Discover the animals that make NZ unique.

03 573 6030 ecoworldnz.com

QUEEN CHARLOTTE On the road-free outer Queen Charlotte Sound, everyone and everything travels by boat. The Queen Charlotte Track covers 71km and passes through magnificent forest, at times allowing spectacular views over the Marlborough Sounds. The whole track can be walked in four days, though you can also ride it by mountain bike.

Endeavour Express Water Taxi Day-trips, round-trips and luggage transfers.

03 573 5456

HAVELOCK Nestled at the head of Pelorus Sound, Havelock is the best place from which to explore the Marlborough Sounds. For trampers and mountain bikers there’s the beautiful Nydia Track.

DOC Office Mahakipawa Rd, 03 574 2019 Explore Pelorus Sea Kayaks 03 576 5251

HAVELOCK STAY Bluemoon Lodge (BBH) 48 Main Rd. 03 574 2212, bluemoonhavelock.co.nz

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Linkwater Motel 1594 Queen Charlotte Dr, 03 574 2600 linkwatermotel.co.nz

Sunrise Lodge (BBH) 74 Beach Rd, 03 319 7444, bbh.co.nz

Okiwa Bay Lodge 169 Anakiwa Rd, 03 574 2527, okiwabaylodge.co.nz

The Fairways at Ocean Ridge 1 Kersage Drive, 03 319 3055

PELORUS SOUND The largest waterway within the Marlborough Sounds, it can be accessed from Havelock, Linkwater or Rai Valley.

BLENHEIM The largest town in Marlborough, and considered (ahem, also) the“sunshine capital of New Zealand”. Whitewater rafting on the Buller and Gowan Rivers is great fun.

Blenheim I-Site 8 Sinclair Street Railway Station 03 577 8080 Honi-B-Backpackers (BBH) 18 Parker St. 03 577 8441, honi-b.com Koanui Backpackers (BBH) 33 Main St. 03 578 7487, koanui.co.nz The Grapevine 29 Park Terrace, 03 578 6062, thegrapevine.co.nz Arrow Backpackers 107 Budge St, 03 577 9857, bbh.co.nz Leway Backpackers 33 Lansdowne St, 03 579 2213, bbh.co.nz

KAIKOURA Kaikoura is famous for its large sperm whale population and picturesque mountain range. You can also snorkel with dolphins or swim with the inquisitive NZ fur seals (Sept-May).

Kaikoura Visitor Info Centre, West End, 03 319 5641

KAIKOURA STAY Adelphi Lodge (BBH, VIP) 26 West End. 0800 423 574, adelphilodge.co.nz Albatross Backpacker Inn (BBH) 1 Torquay St. 03 319 6090, albatross-kaikoura.co.nz Bad Jelly Backpackers (BBH) 11 Churchill St. 03 319 5538, bbh.co.nz Dolphin Lodge (BBH) 15 Deal St. 03 319 5842, dolphinlodge.co.nz Dusky Lodge (BBH) 67 Beach Rd. 03 319 5959 duskylodge.co.nz The Lazy Shag (BBH) 37 Beach St. 03 319 6662 lazy-shag.co.nz Lyell Creek Lodge (BBH) 193 Beach Rd. 03 319 6277, lyellcreeklodge.co.nz

YHA Kaikoura 270 Esplanade. 03 319 5931, yha.co.nz

KAIKOURA DO Kaikoura is famous for its large sperm whale population and picturesque mountain r Albatross Encounter Enjoy the sight of the magnificent albatross so close to the boat you can almost touch them. 96 Esplanade, 0800 733 365 albatrossencounter.co.nz Dolphin Encounter Swim with the acrobatic dusky dolphins or if you prefer, join the tour to view them from the boat. 96 Esplanade, 0800 733 365, dolphin.co.nz Fyffe House 62 Avoca St, Kaikoura’s oldest building, 03 319 5835.

Kaikoura Kayaks Paddle with the playful fur seals, dusky dolphins and marine life of Kaikoura. Seal kayaking, kayak school, hire, retail and kayak fishing.

19 Killarney St, 0800 452 456, kaikourakayaks.co.nz Seal Swim Kaikoura Swim with wild NZ Fur Seals. 58 West End, 0800 732 579, sealswimkaikoura.co.nz

Dorset House (BBH) 1 Dorset St, 03 366 8268, dorset.co.nz Chester Street Backpackers (BBH) 148 Chester St East.

03 377 1897, chesterst.co.nz Foley Towers (BBH) 208 Kilmore St. 03 366 9720, backpack.co.nz/foley Haka Lodge 518 Linwood Ave. 03 980 4252 hakalodge.com Jailhouse Accommodation (BBH) 338 Lincoln Rd. 0800 524 546 jail.co.nz Kiwi Basecamp (BBH) 69 Bealey Ave. 03 366 6770 kiwibasecamp.com Kiwi House 3 Devon St, Hanmer Springs. 03 315 5111, kiwihouse.co.nz Jack in the Green 26 Nayland St. 03 326 6609 bbh.co.nz Point Break Backpackers (BBH) 99 Seaview Road.

03 388 2050 pointbreakbackpackers.co.nz The Old Countryhouse (BBH) 437 Gloucester St. 03 381 5504 oldcountryhousenz.com Tranquil Lodge (BBH) 440 Manchester St. 03 366 6500 tranquil-lodge.co.nz Rucksacker Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 70 Bealey Ave. 03 377 7931, rucksacker.com Vagabond Backpackers (BBH) 232 Worcester St. 03 379 9677 vagabondhostel.com

CHRISTCHURCH Christchurch is the South Island’s major city and a lively, pretty base with a distinctly English feel to it.

Throw in Mount Cook and Mount Hutt with their skifields (early June to late October) and the Canterbury area is well worth spending some time discovering.

Christchurch & Canterbury i-Site Visitor Centre Rolleston Avenue (Next to the Canterbury Museum) Christchurch 8011 03 379 9629 christchurchnz.com Department of Conservation 7 Rolleston Ave, 09 526 9743

C’CHURCH STAY Around the World Backpackers 314 Barbadoes Street. 03 365 4363 aroundtheworld.co.nz At The Right Place 85 Bealey Street. 03 366 1633 atrp.co.nz Avon City Backpackers Worcester Street. 03 389 6876, avoncitybackpackers.com

C’CHURCH DO

chock full of mountains and wildlife.

The two harbours of Akaroa and Lyttelton are craters of a once majestic volcano.

LYTTELTON

AKAROA

Akaroa Information Centre 80 Rue Lavaud, 03 304 8600 Akaroa Shuttle Christchurch to Akaroa buses.

0800 500 929

Christchurch Backpackers Haka Lodge 518 Linwood Av, Woolston,. 03 980 4252, hakalodge.co.nz

BANKS PENINSULA Banks Peninsula is a beautiful region with a stunning coastline

Jack in the Green 3 Devon St. 03 315 5111, jackinthegreen.co.nz

CASTLE HILL Gateway to the Craigieburn Range.

AKAROA STAY

Chill Adventures Multi-mountain snow passes. chillout.co.nz

Bon Accord Backpackers (BBH) 57 Rue Lavaud.

03 304 7782, bon-accord.co.nz

Springfield Hotel State Highway 73, Springfield. 03 318 4812, springfieldhotel.co.nz

Chez La Mer (BBH) 50 Rue Lavaud. 03 304 7024, chezlamer.co.nz

ARTHUR’S PASS

Double Dutch (BBH) 32 Chorlton Road, Okains Bay. 03 304 7229, doubledutch.co.nz

This township is the HQ for the magnificent national park which offers tramping expeditions to skiing.

Halfmoon Cottage (BBH) SH25 Barrys Bay. 03 304 5050, halfmoon.co.nz

National Park Visitor Centre 03 318 9211 Rata Lodge Backpackers (BBH) State Highway 73, Otira Arthur’s Pass National Park, 03 738 2822 rata-lodge.co.nz

AKAROA DO

Smylies Accommodation (YHA) 03 318 9258, yha.co.nz

METHVEN

Black Cat Cruises Offer a number of cruises in Akaroa. See Akaroa Harbour or swim with dolphins. blackcat.co.nz

Methven is a small, friendly town popular with fishermen, hunters and backpackers. The area provides a variety of adrenalin thrills, including hot air ballooning, bungy jumping and skydiving. Mt Hutt also has the longest ski run in Australasia.

Dolphin Experience Swim with dolphins in Akaroa Harbour. 61 Beach Rd, 0508 365 744, dolphinsakaroa.co.nz

Methven i-SITE Visitor Centre 160 Main St, Methven, 03 302 8955,

LEWIS PASS About 200km north of Christchurch, the Lewis Pass connects the west and east coasts on the SH7, with stunning surrounding scenery.

HANMER SPRINGS Hanmer Springs boasts the Hanmer

Kakapo Lodge (YHA) 14 Amuri Avenue. 03 315 7472, kakapolodge.co.nz

Waipara Sleepers (BBH) 12 Glenmark Dr, Waipara.

03 314 6003, waiparasleepers.co.nz

Akaroa French Connection Tours and shuttle bus, 0800 800 575

Akaroa Museum 71 Rue Lavard, 03 304 1013

SUMNER

HANMER STAY Hanmer Backpackers 41 Conical Hill Rd. 03 315 7196, www.hanmerbackpackers.co.nz

Swim with dolphins, horse-ride and paraglide. If your tastes are a little more sedate, the foreshore is lined with cafes, galleries and boutiques.

Skydivingnz.com Skydiving and training courses, 0800 697 593 skydivingnz.com

This surf beach is also a great place to chill for a while. If you’re feeling adventurous, mountain biking, paragliding and surfing are just some of the activities you can try.

The Hanmer Connection Christchurch to Hanmer Springs buses. hanmerconnection.co.nz

Lyttelton Information Centre 20 Oxford St, 03 328 9093

Onuku Farm Hostel (BBH) 03 304 7066, onuku.co.nz

Aoraki Balloon Safaris Hot air ballooning, 03 302 8172, nzballooning.com

Department of Conservation 115 Ludstone Rd, Kaikoura 03 319 5714

Lyttelton is a quaint township with a beautiful scenic harbour and historic buildings. The harbour is a great place for boating, while the surrounding hills are good for mountain biking and walking.

Black Cat Cruises Wildlife Cruises on Lyttelton Harbour. Free shuttle bus from Christchurch, 03 328 9078. blackcat.co.nz

Springs Thermal Reserve, where the water can reach 40°C (03 315 7511, hotfun.co.nz). Mt Lyford offers good winter skiing and is a cheaper option to the South Island resorts.

NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt. nzski.com

METHVEN STAY Brinkley Resort 43 Barkers Rd, Mt Hutt,

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SOUTHISLAND 03 302 8885, brinkleyresort.co.nz Big Tree Lodge 25 S Belt, 03 302 9575, bigtreelodge.co.nz Mt Hutt Bunkhouse (BBH) 8 Lampard St. 03 302 8894, mthuttbunkhouse.co.nz Pinedale Backpacker Lodge (BBH) 11 Alford St. 0800 638 483, pinedalelodge.co.nz Redwood Lodge (BBH) 3 Wayne Place. 03 302 8964, bbh.co.nz Skiwi House (BBH) 30 Chapman St. 03 302 8772, skiwihouse.com Breckenridge Lodge 49 S Belt, 03 302 8902, breckenridgelodge.co.nz

TIMARU Despite being industrial, it’s picturesque with views of the Southern Alps, plains and sea.

anywhere in New Zealand. The showcase is the majestic Mt Cook (Aoraki). NZ’s greatest climber Sir Edmund Hillary used it as a practice ground before conquering Mt Everest, but Mt Cook has claimed the lives of more than 160 people.

Discuss climbing plans with park rangers before you go.

Department of Conservation Visitor Information Centre Aoraki/Mt Cook Alpine Village, 03 435 1819 The Cook Connection Day trips to Mt Cook from Tekapo. Ph: 021 583 211, cookconnect.co.nz

MT COOK STAY YHA Franz Josef Glacier 2 Cron St, Franz Josef, 03 752 0754, mt.chalets@xtra.co.nz YHA Mt Cook Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park.

03 435 1820, yha.co.nz

1873 Wanderer Backpackers (BBH) 24 Evans St. 03 688 8795 Timaru Top 10 Holiday Park 154A Selwyn St, Waimataitai 0800 242 121 Anchor Motel 44 Evans St, 03 684 5067 anchormotel.co.nz

WEST COAST Rugged is the word often used when it comes to the South Island’s west coast. It’s quite an amazing place, sparsely inhabited, untouched in many areas and studded with geographical wonders. Don’t miss the two mighty glaciers, Fox and Franz Josef, or the Pancake Rocks.

GERALDINE As well as a wonderful old movie theatre and whitewater rafting on the Rangitata River, visiting the mighty Emily Falls is recommended.

Geraldine Information Centre Talbot Street, 03 693 1006 Peel Forest Horse Trekking Wilderness adventures trekking through some gorgeous country, 03 696 3703, peelforesthorsetrekking.co.nz

KARAMEA Karamea contains pleasant walks, interesting caves and the Oparara River, a great trout fishing spot.

Walk along the wonderful Fernian Track or, try the more challenging hike up Mt Stormy.

Karamea Information Centre 106 Bridge St, 03 782 6652.

Rongo Backpackers 03 782 6667, rongobackpackers.com

Rangitata Rafts Peel Forest, 0800 251 251 rafts.co.nz Rawhiti Backpackers (BBH) 27 Hewlings St. 03 693 8252 rawhitibackpackers.co.nz

LAKE TEKAPO A stunning turquoise-coloured lake, 100km west of Timaru. The tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, built in 1935, frames the view beautifully.

Activities include walking, watersports, fishing and skiing.

Tailor-Made-Tekapo Backpackers (BBH) 10/11 Aorangi Cres.

03 680 6700 tailor-made-backpackers.co.nz

MURCHISON With crazy terrain skewed by mining and earthquakes, one of the major attractions of Murchison is its proximity to Buller Gorge, a wonderfully scenic cluster of cliffs and trees. Activities include rafting on the Gowan River and mountain biking on the Matakitaki.

Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park 03 523 9809, bullergorge.co.nz The Lazy Cow Accommodation (BBH) 37 Waller St. 03 523 9451, thelazycownz.wordpress.com

YHA Lake Tekapo 3 Simpson Lane. 03 680 6857, yha.co.nz

MT COOK Mount Cook National Park is part of a World Heritage area that forms one of the most amazing sights

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REEFTON The centrepiece of the town is Victoria Forest Park, the largest forest park in New Zealand.

Reefton Visitor Centre 67 Broadway,

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BOOK NOW! 03 732 8391 Reefton Old Bread Shop 155 Buller Rd, 03 732 8420, reeftonbackpackers.co.nz The Old Nurses Home 104 Shiel St, 03 789 8881

WESTPORT Visitor Information Westport 1 Brougham St, 03 789 6658

Global Village (BBH) 42-54 Cowper St, 03 768 7272, globalvillagebackpackers.co.nz Neptunes International Backpackers (BBH) 43 Gresson St, 0800 003 768, neptunesbackpackers.co.nz Noahs Ark Backpackers (BBH) 16 Chapel St, 03 768 4868, noahs.co.nz

Bazil’s Hostel (VIP) 54/56 Russell St. 03 789 6410, bazils.co.nz

Greymouth KIWI Holiday Park & Motel 318 Main South Rd, 03 762 6768, southbeach.co.nz

Beaconstone Eco Lodge Birds Ferry Road Charleston 027 431 0491 beconstoneecolodge.co.nz

Kainga-RA YHA 15 Alexander St, Ph: (03) 768 4951, yha.co.nz

TripInn (BBH) 72 Queen St. 03 789 7367 tripinn.co.nz

PAPAROA NP This park is home to the amazing Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki. These are a series of eroded limestone rocks moulded into what appears to be a giant stack of pancakes.

Visitor Information Punakaiki 03 731 1895 punakaiki.co.nz Barrytown Knife Making 2662 Coast Road, Barrytown, 03 731 1053, barrytownknifemaking.com

PAPAROA STAY Punakaiki Beach Hostel (BBH) 4 Webb St. 03 731 1852, punakaikibeachhostel.co.nz Te Nikau Retreat (BBH, YHA) 03 731 1111, tenikauretreat.co.nz Punakaiki Beach Camp Owen Street, 03 731 1894, punakaiki.co.nz

GREYMOUTH The west coast’s largest town is dominated by the Grey River.

Highlights include the Monteith’s brewery tour, as well as aquatic activities like rafting and canyoning.

Visitor Information Herbert and Mackay Sts, 03 768 5101 TranzAlpine Scenic railway from Christchurch to Greymouth, travelling through Canterbury Plains and the Alps. Departs 9am every morning. 0800 872 467 tranzscenic.co.nz

GREYMOUTH STAY The west coast’s largest town is dominated by the Duke Hostel (BBH) 27 Guiness St. 03 768 9470 bbh.co.nz

HOKITIKA Greenstone, a form of practically indestructible rock that was used by the Maori to make weapons and ornaments, is the main attraction here. There’s also the Westland Water World for all things wet, the Glowworm Dell and some excellent whitewater rafting.

Hokitika Visitor Info Centre Carnegie Building, corner of Hamilton & Tancred Street, 03 755 6166

HOKITIKA STAY Hokitika Holiday Park 242 Strafford St, 03 755 8172

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OKARITO The tiny beach settlement of Okarito, near Franz Josef Glacier, sits at the mouth of New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland – the Okarito Lagoon. Hike up to the Okarito Trig for excellent views.

Okarito Nature Tours 03 753 4014, okarito.co.nz Royal Hostel (BBH) The Strand, 03 753 4080, okaritohostel.com

FRANZ JOSEF The glacier is about 12km long and offers a wide variety of challenging activities. To get the ultimate perspective on the magnitude of Franz Josef, head for Sentinel Rock, which gives a sweeping view over both the Waiho Valley and the mighty glacier.

DOC Visitors Information Centre Westland National Park, Hwy 6, 03 752 0796

FRANZ STAY Chateau Franz (VIP, BBH) 8-10 Cron St, 0800 728 372, chateaufranz.co.nz Glow Worm Cottages (BBH) 27 Cron St, 0800 151 027, budgetaccommodation.co.nz Montrose (BBH) 9 Cron St, 03 752 0188, bbh.co.nz

Birdsong (BBH) 124 SH6, 03 755 7179 birdsong.co.nz

Rainforest Retreat (VIP) Cron St, 0800 873 346 rainforestretreat.co.nz

Drifting Sands Backpackers (BBH) 197 Revell St, 03 755 7624,

YHA Franz Josef 2-4 Cron St, 03 752 0754, yha.co.nz

Mountain Jade Backpackers (BBH) 41 Weld St, 03 755 5185, mountainjadebackpackers.co.nz Riverview Cottage & Cabins (BBH) 154 Kaniere Rd, 03 755 7440 bbh.co.nz Stumpers Accommodation 2 Weld St, 03 755 6154, stumpers.co.nz

HOKITIKA DO Whitewater Kayaking hokitika.org Hokitika Gorge Sometimes you see photos of a tourist spot and think yeah right, it can’t look as good as that in real life. Hokitika Gorge is one of those places. hokitika.org

WHATAROA About 35km south of Harihari and one of the South Island’s prime fishing spots. Also the magnificent white heron (Kotuku) colony which thrillseekers can reach by jet boat.

FRANZ DO Alpine Adventure Centre Footage on a helimax screen, 03 752 0793 scenic-flights.co.nz Franz Josef Glacier Guides Guided walks and heli-hikes on the Franz Josef Glacier 0800 484 337, franzjosefglacier.com Glacier Country Kayaks Explore the glaciers from the water 03 752 0230, glacierkayaks.com Skydive Franz At 18,000ft, they currently offer NZ’s highest skydive.

0800 458 677, skydivefranz.co.nz

FOX GLACIER Similiar activities to Franz Josef only with fewer crowds. The best walk is up to the Welcome Flat Hot Springs.

For stunning views, head up the wonderfully scenic Chalet Lookout Walk. Look out for the beautiful kea (grey-green mountain parrot).

Nearby is Lake Matheson, with its stunning twin mountain reflection.

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DOC Visitor Centre State Hwy 6, 03 752 0796

FOX STAY Fox Glacier Inn 03 751 0088 foxglacierinn.co.nz Ivory Towers (BBH) 03 751 0838, ivorytowerslodge.co.nz

FOX DO Fox Glacier Guiding Guided walks and heli-hikes on the FoxGlacier. 0800 111 600, foxguides.co.nz Glacier Country Kayaks 20 Cron St, 0800 423 262, glacierkayaks.com Skydive NZ: Fox Glacier 0800 751 0080, skydivingnz.co.nz

HAAST PASS Running through Mt Aspiring National Park, this stretch of road is among the most scenic that you’ll come across in New Zealand, showing off pristine lakes, magnificent forests and waterfalls.

DOC Centre Cnr SH 6 and Jackson Bay Rd, 03 750 0809 Wilderness Backpackers (BBH) Marks Rd, 03 750 029, bbh.co.nz

SOUTHLAND The top of your chest will quickly get sore as the South Island’s jaw-dropping scenery becomes more prevalent. From the adrenalin thrills of Queenstown to the achingly beautiful Milford Sound, there’s never a dull moment down south. Stop frequently, take deep breaths and enjoy one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Mt Aspiring National Park Visitor Info Centre Mt Earnslaw, 03 443 7660

LAKE WANAKA The cosy town and its crystal-clear waters which reflect the dramatic landscape is the gateway to Mount Aspiring Park. The World Heritage area has magnificent tramping and mountaineering. Lake Wanaka boasts almost as many adrenalintastic activities as neighbouring Queenstown, such as mountain biking, jet-boating, canyoning, and whitewater sledging. It’s a favourite with snowboarders in winter, and has lively nightlife year-round.

Boasting the most sceneray from those films with wizards and hairyfooted hobbits, there are great Lord of the Rings tours, too.

Lake Wanaka Visitors Centre The Log Cabin, Lakefront, 100 Ardmore Street.

03 4431 1233

WANAKA STAY

LAKE HAWEA

Albert Town Lodge (BBH) Cnr SH6 and Kingston St, Albert Town, 03 443 9487, alberttownlodge.co.nz

Thirty-five kilometres long and more than 400m deep, Lake Hawea is a great source of salmon and rainbow trout.

Holly’s Backpackers (BBH) 71 Upton St, 03 443 8187, hollys-backpacker.co.nz Mountain View Backpackers (BBH) 7 Russell St, 0800 112 201, wanakabackpackers.co.nz The Purple Cow (BBH) 94 Brownston St, 03 443 1880, purplecow.co.nz Wanaka Bakpaka (BBH) 117 Lakeside Rd, 03 443 7837, wanakabakpaka.co.nz YHA Wanaka 181 Upton St, 03 443 7405, yha.co.nz

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QUEENSTOWN Paradise for the energetic traveller, Queenstown is one of the world’s most action-packed towns. The town, which is surprisingly small compared to its big reputation, is located on Lake Wakatipu and rises up to the peaks of the aptly-named Remarkables (which you can ski in winter). In winter, the town is a centre for nearby skifields and in summer adventure activities and tramping take over. There’s also a hectic social scene which extends well into the wee small hours.

Info & Track Guided Walks 37 Shotover St, 03 442 9708 Peterpans Adventure Travel 27 Shotover St Queenstown. peterpans.com.au

Adventure Consultants Mountaineering instruction courses and guided ascents, 03 443 8711, adventure.co.nz

Queenstown Travel & Visitor Centre Corner of Shotover & Camp Sts, 03 442 4100

Aspiring Guides Guided mountain climbing and ice climbing instruction courses, 03 443 9422, aspiringguides.com

Alpine Lodge (BBH) 13 Gorge Rd. 03 442 7220, bbh.co.nz

Classic Flights Vintage Tiger Moth flights over Lake Wanaka. 03 443 4043, classicflights.co.nz Deep Canyon Canyoning in the Matukituki Valley.

Adventure Wanaka, 23 Dunmore St, Wanaka. 03 443 7922, deepcanyon.co.nz Frogz Have More Fun Sledge down either the Clutha, Hawea or Kawarau Rivers.

0800 437 649, frogz.co.nz The Silver Demon Aerobatic flights.

03 443 4043, silverdemon.co.nz Skydive Lake Wanaka Freefall from 12,000 or 15,000ft with views of NZ’s highest mountains. 0800 786 877, skydivenz.com Treble Cone Ski Field 03 443 7443, treblecone.co.nz Wanaka Rock Climbing One, three and five-day rock climbing courses for everyone.

03 443 6411, wanakarock.co.nz Wanaka Flightseeing Milford Sound flight and cruise from Wanaka, 03 443-8787, flightseeing.co.nz Wanaka Sightseeing Includes Lord of the Rings tours, 2 Anderson Rd, 03 338 0982, wanakasightseeing.co.nz

Q’TOWN STAY

Aspen Lodge (BBH) 11 Gorge Rd. 03 442 9671, aspenlodge.co.nz Base Discovery Lodge Queenstown 49 Shotover St. 03 441 1185, stayatbase.com Black Sheep Lodge (BBH/VIP) 13 Frankton Rd. 03 442 7289, blacksheepbackpackers.co.nz Bungi Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 15 Sydney St. 0800 728 286, bungibackpackers.co.nz Butterfli Lodge (BBH) 62 Thompson St. 03 442 6367, butterfli.co.nz Cardrona Alpine Resort Between Queenstown and Wanaka.

03 443 7341, cardrona.com Deco Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 52 Man St. 03 442 7384, decobackpackers.co.nz

rooms, dorm beds and selfcontained family cabins. 48 Hamilton Rd. 0800 746 396, 03 442 8273, pinewood.co.nz

NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt, nzski.com

Southern Laughter (BBH, VIP) 4 Isle St. 0800 728 448, southernlaughter.co.nz

Queenstown Rafting Raft the Shotiver, Kawarau and Landsborough rivers. 35 Shotover St. 03 442 9792 rafting.co.nz

Hippo Lodge 4 Anderson Heights. 03 442 5785, hippolodge.co.nz

Real Journeys Visitor Centre Doubtful Sound & Milford Sound daytime and overnight cruises.

Te Anau glow-worm cave excursions. TSS Earnslaw vintage steamship cruises and Walter Peak High Country Farm.

0800 65 65 01, realjourneys.co.nz

Flaming Kiwi Backpackers 39 Robins Rd, 03 442 5494 YHA Queenstown Central 48A Shotover Street.

03 442 7400, yha.co.nz YHA Queenstown Lakefront 88-90 Lake Esplanade.

03 442 8413, yha.co.nz

Q’TOWN DO There are hundreds of activities to keep you occupied in Queenstown.

Bungy, jetboating and rafting are all experiences not to be missed, and in winter, skiing the Remarkables is a must. To really appreciate the beauty of the region, take a scenic flight, or even jump out the plane.

AJ Hackett Bungy Queenstown Jump off one or all of New Zealand’s most well-known sites. Nevis Highwire Bungy, the highest in New Zealand – 134m above the Nevis River. The Kawarau Bridge, the world’s first bungy – 43m above the Kawarau River. The 47m Ledge, 400m above the town which you can jump day or night. Access is

by Skyline Gondola.

0800 286 4958 bungy.co.nz Awesome Foursome Bungy (Nevis – 134m), jetboat, helicopter, whitewater rafting, combos.co.nz Dart River Safaris Jetboating wilderness tours, 0800 327 8538, dartriver.co.nz Fat Tyre Adventure Mountain biking/heli biking, 0800 328 897, fat-tyre.co.nz Fergburger Best burgers in NZ. Shotover St, fergburger.com

Flaming Kiwi Backpackers (BBH) 39 Robins Rd. 03 442 5494, flamingkiwi@xtra.co.nz

Flight Park Tandem Paragliding Operates from Coronet Peak 0800 467 325, tandemparagliding.com

Hippo Lodge (BBH) 4 Anderson Hts. 03 442 5785, hippolodge.co.nz

Haka Adventure Snow Tours 03 980 4250, hakatours.com

Nomads Queenstown 5-11 Church St. 03 441 3922, nomadshostels.com

Mad Dog River Boarding River sledging & other actionpacked water activities, 03 442 7797, riverboarding.co.nz

Pinewood Lodge (VIP) Queenstown’s best value accommodation. We offer an excellent variety of accommodation, everything from deluxe en-suite rooms with private bathroom amenities, inexpensive double and twin

Shotover St, 03 442 5867, nzone.biz

Milford Sound Flightseeing Scenic flights to Milford Sound, 0800 65 65 01, realjourneys.co.nz NZONE Skydive Skydive from 15,000ft. 35

Shotover Canyon Swing Jump or be released 109m off the world’s highest cliff jump.

0800 279 464, canyonswing.co.nz Shotover Jet Jetboat ride. 0800 746 868 shotoverjet.com Sky Trek Hang Gliding 03 442 9551, skytrek.co.nz Vertigo Mountain Biking Heli-bike and gondola downhill.

0800 837 8446, vertigobikes.co.nz

GLENORCHY Just out of Queenstown is Glenorchy (or “Isengard”) which has some of the best walks in the area, including the Greenstone and Caples tracks.

Department of Conservation Beech St, 03 442 7933 Glenorchy Backpackers Retreat (VIP) Cnr Mull and Argyle Streets, Glenorchy, glenorchynz.com Kinloch Lodge (BBH) 862 Kinloch Rd, 03 442 4900, kinlochlodge.co.nz

ARROWTOWN Poplar Lodge (BBH) 4 Merioneth St, 03 442 1466, spoplarlodge.co.nz Arrowtown Holiday Park 12 Centennial Ave, 03 442 1876

TE ANAU Home to the second largest lake in NZ, Te Anau is a beautiful little town, a good jumping off point for the World Heritage Fiordland National Park. The park is the largest in New Zealand and offers some spectacular sightseeing. The Milford Track is one of the most famous in the world, but often booked out. The Routeburn, ReesDart and Kepler are ace alternatives. doc.govt.nz Fiordland I-site Visitor Centre Lakefront Drive, Te Anau, 03 249 8900

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SOUTHISLAND Department of Conservation 03 249 8514 Te Anau Glowworm Caves realjourneys.co.nz Air Fiordland Flights to Queenstown, Milford and Mt Cook, 03 249 7505, airfiordland.co.nz Real Journeys Coaches to Milford Sound, 0800 656 503 realjourneys.co.nz Scenic Shuttle Daily between Te Anau and Invercargill in summer months, twice weekly in winter. Connects with the Catlins Coaster from Invercargill to Dunedin 0800 277 483 Top Line Tours Coach to and from Te Anau and Queenstown, 03 249 8059

TE ANAU STAY Barnyard Backpackers (BBH) 80 Mt York Rd, Rainbow Downs, 03 249 8006, barnyard.moonfruit.com

ANAU TO MILFORD The distance between Te Anau and Milford Sound may be 119km but the breathtaking scenery along the way makes the journey extremely enjoyable. Along the road watch out for the Mirror Lakes and the disappearing mountain. Another highlight is the 1.2km rough-hewn Homer Tunnel. It’s pitch black, having no lighting plus it’s pretty darn steep – a thrilling experience for those afraid of the dark.

MILFORD SOUND Green, wet and breathtakingly beautiful, Milford Sound is one of the most picturesque sights in the world. Much of the action in the Milford Sound takes place on the water and the best way to appreciate the beauty on show is on a cruise or kayak. Bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins all hang out there.

Milford Sound Lodge (BBH) 03 249 8071, milfordlodge.co.nz

Bob & Maxine’s (BBH) 20 Paton Place, 03 931 3161, bbh.co.za

Real Journeys 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz

Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers 48/50 Lakefront Dr, 03 249 7713, teanaubackpackers.co.za

Great Sights On and under the water, 03 442 9445 greatsights.co.nz

Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park & Motel 77 Manapouri, 03 249 7457, teanauholidaypark.co.nz

Milford Sound Underwater Observatory Discover a coral reef beneath Milford Sound, 03 249 9442

YHA Te Anau 29 Mokonui St, 03 249 7847, yha.co.nz

TE ANAU DO Adventure Fiordland 72 Town Centre, 03 249 8500 fiordlandaventure.co.nz High Ride Adventures Quad riding and scenic horse trekking. 03 249 8591, highride.co.nz Luxmore Jet Jetboating on the Waiau River, 0800 253 826, luxmorejet.co.nz Real Journeys Doubtful Sound daytime wilderness, small boat and overnight cruises. Milford Sound daytime, overnight scenic, nature and small boat cruises. 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz Milford Track Day Walk Lake cruise and guided walk, 0800 656 501 milfordlodge.co.nz Rosco’s Milford Sound Sea Kayaks 0800 476 726, roscosmilfordkayaks.com Skydive Fiordland Dive 44 Caswell Rd, Te Anau, 0800 829254,

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MILFORD DO

Milford Sound Cruise & Observatory Visit 0800 656 501 Milford Wanderer Cruises Day and overnight options with kayaking, etc. Coach connections, 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz Tawaki Dive See Fiordland’s unique marine life on a day-trip with two guided dives in Milford Sound.

Rental gear available, max four divers. 0800 829254, tawakidive.co.nz TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Farm tours, barbecue lunches, horse treks and cycling. realjourneys.co.nz Wanaka Flightseeing Milford Sound flight and cruise, 0800 105 105, flightseeing.co.nz 

MANAPOURI Manapouri is the proud owner of arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful stretch of water. This is where the boat trip on Doubtful Sound leaves from – most start the trip in Queenstown or Te Anau. From the boat you may see seals and possibly dolphins and penguins.

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BOOK NOW! Adventure Charters and Hires fiordlandadventure.co.nz Real Journeys 03 249 6602 realjourneys.co.nz

MANAPOURI STAY Freestone Backpackers (BBH) 270 Hillside Rd, 03 249 6893, bbh.co.nz Manapouri Lakeview Motor Inn 68 Cathedral Drive, 03 249 6652, manapouri.co.nz Possum Lodge (BBH) 13 Murrel Ave, 03 249 6623, possumlodge.co.nz

DOUBT SOUND If you’re not one for crowds, an alternative Fiordland option is Doubtful Sound – the deepest of the fiords, made up of 100km of waterways. Where Milford is all pointy peaks and endless cascading falls, Doubtful is rounded mountains – a serene sanctuary, inhabited by loads of interesting critters.

Real Journeys Daytime wilderness, small boat and overnight cruises.

0800 656 502 realjourneys.co.nz Fiordland Navigator Pearl Harbour, Manapouri 03 249 6602, doubtfulsound.co.nz Deep Cove Hostel Doubtful Sound, 03 249 7713, deepcovehostel.co.nz

INVERCARGILL The southernmost city in New Zealand, Invercargill is a farmingorientated community with a pleasant collection of parks and museums to keep you busy.

Invercargill I-site Visitors Centre 108 Gala St, 03 214 6243 Dept of Conservation Office Don St, 03 214 4589 Catlins Coaster Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins with many stops to the main natural attractions and wildlife encounters. Farmstay options are available, 0800 304333, catlinscoaster.co.nz Stewart Island Flights Flights to Stewart Island, 03 218 9129, stewartislandflights.co.nz

INVERCARG STAY Southern Comfort (BBH) 30 Thompson St, 03 218 3838 bbh.co.nz

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Tuatara Backpacker Lodge 30 Dee St, 03 214 0956, tuataralodge.co.nz

SOUTH SCENIC The beautiful road west of Invercargill towards Fiordland is known as the Southern Scenic Route.

Pepper Tree Hostel 121 Grey St, Palmerston, 06 335 4054, peppertreehostel.co.nz Grandma’s Place 146 Grey St, Palmerston North, 06 358 6928, grandmas-place.co.nz The Globe Backpackers (VIP) 144 Palmerston St, Riverton, 03 234 8527, globebackpackers@xtra.co.nz Harbison Backpackers (BBH) 5 Harbison St, Otautau, 03 225 8715, michdale@xtra.co.nz Shooters Backpackers 73 Main St, Tuatapere, 03 226 6250

GORE Gore spans the Mataura river and boasts some lovely scenery in the Hokonui Hills and the Country and Western festival each June.

Old Fire Station Backpackers (BBH) 19 Hokonui Dr, 03 208 1925, thefirestation.co.nz Oakleight Motels 70 Hokonui Dr, 03 208 4863, oakleighmotel.co.za

THE CATLINS The beautiful Catlins is a sprawling mass of bush, forest and rivers, stretching all the way from Waipapa Point in Southland to Nugget Point in Otago. The best bit about the Catlins is the abundance of wildlife.

Catlins Community Info Centre 3 Main Rd, Owaka, South Otago, 03 415 8371, catlins.org.nz Elm Lodge Wildlife Tours Two-day camping trips, 0800 356 563, elmwildlifetours.co.nz

CATLINS STAY Wrights Mill Lodge (BBH) 865 Tahakopa Valley, 03 204 8424, bbh.co.nz Lazy Dolphin 529 Curio Bay Rd, 03 246 8579. bbh.co.nz Fernlea Backpackers (VIP) Moana St, Kaka Point, 03 412 8834 The Split Level (BBH)

@tnt_downunder 9 Waikawa Rd, Owaka, 03 415 8304, brianwayne@clear.net.nz Surat Bay Lodge (BBH) Surat Bay Rd, New Haven, 03 415 8099, suratbay.co.nz Penguin Paradise Holiday Lodge (BBH) 612 Waikawa-Niagara Rd, Waikawa Village South Catlins, 03 2468 552, dolphinsurf@xtra.co.nz Thomas Catlins Lodge & Holiday Park, 8 Clark St, Owaka 03 415 8333, thomascatlins.co.nz Wright’s Mill Lodge (BBH) 865 Tahakopa Valley Rd, 03 204 8424 catlinsaccommodation.co.nz

DUNEDIN Dunedin is Celtic for “Edinburgh” and many Scottish principles endure here. One thing the locals do much better than their Scots ancestors is play rugby, so if there’s a game on at Carisbrook (the “House of Pain”) while you’re in town, beg, borrow or steal to get yourself there.

Dunedin Visitor Centre 48 The Octagon, 03 474 3300 Dept of Conservation Office 77 Stuart St, 03 477 0677 Penguin Patch 9 the Octagon, 03 471 8571, Email: penguinpatch@xtra.co.nz

DUNEDIN STAY The Asylum Lodge (BBH) 36 Russell Rd, Seacliff, 03 465 8123, bbh.co.nz Bus Stop backpackers (BBH) 252 Harrington Point Rd, Portobello, 03 478 0330, bbh.co.nz Chalet Backpackers (BBH) 296 High St, 03 479 2075 bbh.co.nz Dunedin Central Backpackers (BBH) 243 Moray Pl, 03 477 9985, bbh.co.nz The Jolly Poacher (BBH) 74 Elm Row, 03 477 3384 bbh.co.nz Hogwartz (BBH) 277 Rattray St, 03 474 1487, bbh.co.nz The Jolly Poacher (BBH) 54 Arthur St, 03 477 3384, bbh.co.nz Kiwis Nest (BBH) 597 George St, 03 471 9540, bbh.co.nz

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Leviathan Hotel 27 Queens Gardens, 0800 773 773, dunedinhotel.co.nz Manor House (BBH) 28 Manor Place, 03 477 0484, manorhousebackpackers.co.nz On Top Backpackers (BBH) 12 Filleul St, cnr Moray Pl, 03 477 6121, bbh.co.nz Pennys Backpackers (BBH) 6 Stafford St, 03 477 6027, bbh.co.nz Next Stop Backpackers 2 View St, 03 477 0477, nextstop.co.nz Ramsay Lodge (BBH) 60 Stafford St, 03 477 6313, bbh.co.nz YHA Dunedin, Stafford Gables 71 Stafford St, 03 474 1919, yha.co.nz

DUNEDIN DO Baldwin Street In the Guinness Book of Records as the steepest street in the world.

Cadbury World 280 Cumberland St, 0800 223 2879, cadbury.co.nz Cosmic Corner Funk Store Check out the legal highs and chat to the staff about where to go for parties, events and the beautiful parts of New Zealand.

355 George St, 03 479 2949

423 Aramoana Rd, Port Chalmers, 03 472 8323, billybrowns.co.nz McFarmers Backpackers (BBH) 774 Portobello Rd, Portobello, 02 5206 0640, bbh.co.nz

OTAGO DO Historic Fort Taiaroa An underground complex built in the 1880s, this fortified stronghold has been inhabited since earliest Maori settlement of the area. Tours available at the Visitor Centre. Fletcher House, Broad Bay, 03 478 0180 Larnach Castle Australasia’s only castle. The architecture is amazing and the intricate details (including a foyer ceiling that took nearly seven years to build) are breathtaking.

NZ Marine Studies Centre and Aquarium Run by the University of Otago, the Portobello Aquarium and Marine Biology Centre (near Quarantine Point) is a refuge for a diverse collection of fish and reptile life.

03 479 5826 Elm Wildlife Tours 0800 356 563, elmwildlifetours.co.nz

TAIAROA HEAD Taiaroa Head is the place to see the albatross colony, the only mainland colony in the world inside the bounds of a city.

ALEXANDRA Alexandra and Roxburgh are the two main towns for fruit-picking work in the Central

Otago region.

Grasshopper Rock One of the world’s southernmost vineyards, situated on the Earnscleugh Rd. grasshopperrock.co.nz

ROXBURGH Villa Rose Backpackers (BBH) 79 Scotland St, 03 446 8761, remarkableorchards@xtra. co.nz

OAMARU A charming little place noted for both its interesting collection of white granular limestone buildings and its large penguin population.

Visitor Information Centre Thames St, 03 434 1656 Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony View blue penguins at dusk. Waterfront Rd, 03 433 1195, penguins.co.nz Chillawhile Backpackers (BBH) & Art Gallery 1 Frome St, Roberts Park, 03 437 0168, chillawhile.co.nz Coastal Backpackers (BBH) The Hall, Waianakarua Rd, All Day Bay, 03 439 5411, coastalbackpackers.co.nz Buscot Station (BBH) 732 Omarama,

03 438 9646, buscotstn@xtra.co.nz Empire Hotel (BBH) 13 Thames St, 03 434 3446, empirehotel@hotmail.com Old Bones Backpackers (BBH) Rapid Number 468 Beach Rd, Kakanui, 03 434 8115, simon@oldbones.co.nz YHA Oamaru, Red Kettle Seasonal (open September/October to May/June only). Corner of Reed and Cross Sts, 03 434 5008, yha.co.nz Swaggers Backpackers (BBH) 25 Wansbeck St, 03 434 9999, swaggers@es.co.nz

MOERAKI Just 30km south of Oamaru lies a remarkable collection of eerie giant boulders.

Olive Grove Lodge (BBH) 2328 SH1, Waianakarua, 03 439 5830, info@olivebranch.co.nz The Dubliner 105 Tiverton St, Palmerston, 03 465 8123

Dunedin Public Art Gallery 30 The Octagon, 03 474 3240, dpagmail@dcc.govt.nz Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony View blue penguins just metres away every evening at dusk. Waterfront Rd, 1-1/2 hrs north of Dunedin, 03 433 1195, penguins.co.nz Parachute Experience Skydiving from a great height 03 489 4113, dropzone.com Sinclair Wetlands and Educational Centre Freedom or conducted walks over 5km of walkways. Backpacker and camping facilities. Rapid no 854 Clarendon/ Berwick Rd (signposted on SH1 30km south of Dunedin), 03 486 2654 Speights Brewery Heritage Tours 03 477 7697, speights.co.nz Royal Albatross Centre 03 478 0499, albatross.org.nz

OTAGO PENINSULA The Otago Peninsula is a beautiful stretch of rugged coast, home to a fascinating collection of rare and native birds such as the albatross and yellow-eyed penguin.

Billy Browns (BBH)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT ZIPTREK ECO-TOURS, QUEENSTOWN Suspended high above the ancient forests and jagged mountain peaks, a Ziptrek Eco-tour is simply a must-do activity when visiting New Zealand’s beautiful South Island. The company runs two separate tours; the four-line Moan and the longer, six-line Kea, offering you a ropecourse experience like no other. The Kea is a three-hour long, high-velocity adventure that includes a stunning new 20-minute guided trek extension of the local Tiki Trail, an ancient beech forest littered with platforms. The Moa is more of a high-octane series of death-defying flying fox runs through some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. Ziptrek tours are all 100% eco-friendly and the company takes great pride ziptrek.com in keeping the pristine natural environment of Queenstown unharmed by any of its operational activity. Cost from $79.

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Indo-needs-ya Like a path of breadcrumbs leading you from Asia to Australia, Indonesia is spread across a chain of thousands of islands.

TNT urges you to follow the trail...

EDITED BY IAN ARMITAGE

First-time travellers to Indonesia usually head straight for Bali. It is Indonesia’s doe-eyed beauty and the undoubted star, a real boon for tourism. But Indonesia is an incredibly diverse archipelago, with no less than 17,000-odd islands, each with their own identity.

Here, we offer you a nifty little overview of this expansive and beautiful country, giving you an insight into the popular travel hotspots, and revealing one or two incredibly valuable travel tips (it’s our speciality in case you didn’t know).

This is an adventure that’s affordable and increasingly accessible – although half the fun is in travelling in tiny fragile planes, rusty boats and back-firing buses. It’s worth noting that if you only have a few days or a couple of weeks, you’ll have a better time if you restrict yourself to exploring a small area; don’t try to island hop over 3,000km to see your top 10 sights. It’ll be a nightmare!

Itinerary ideas IN 2-3 DAYS If you have limited time, it’s best to head straight to Bali, which most tourists will do. Hotels are a dime a dozen, from five-star luxury out fits to budget $2-a-night rooms without a fan or fly screen (goodbye sleep). Spend your time surfing the reef breaks, feasting on cheap seafood, sampling the unique nightlife, shopping ‘til you drop and exploring mystical Hindu temples.

IN A WEEK With a week up your sleeve, there is a bit more time for you to get to know Bali a little better. Explore the Bukit peninsula and head into the misty mountains at Ubud.

In your last few days, catch a ferry across to Nusa Lembongan or Lombok (see page 85 for more), or consider flying to the island of Sumbawa. These places are slightly off the radar, offering a more traditional experience and an insight into the simpler Indonesia, away from the neon tourist districts of Bali.

IN TWO WEEKS+ After exploring Bali and stopping in at Lombok or Sumbawa, head west to the islands of Java or Sumatra (see page 85). Java has the capital, Jakarta, along with the peaceful mountain hideaway of Yogjakarta.

Meanwhile, Sumatra is home to verdant rainforests chock-

full of birdlife and orang-utans. Alternatively, head east from Bali and explore the oft-overlooked islands of Roti and Timor.

Bali Bali is the complete tropical island; lush, culturally unique and exotic, yet has all forms of creature comforts.

It’s also a surfing mecca, the epic reef breaks of Uluwatu, Padang Padang and Bingin luring surfers from all corners of the globe since the 1970s. Back then, Bali was largely untouched by tourism. These days, with an international airport within a ‘coo-ee’ of the waves, the most popular breaks are always packed with a small army of Australian, Brazilian, American and local surfers. Still, with warm water and perfect coral-reef barrels, it remains a surfer’s paradise.

The Island is chock-full of natural attractions, with miles of sandy beaches from Legian to Kuta and Nusa Dua, picturesque rice terraces, towering active volcanoes, pristine crater lakes, sacred caves, and lush tropical forests full of exotic wildlife. It’s also a scuba diver’s paradise – the best Bali diving sites are along the east cost near Candi Dasa, Amed, Tulamben and Nusa Penida.

Bali’s rich cultural heritage is visible pretty much everywhere, with more than 20,000 temples – the best of the bunch are Tanah Lot, Uluwatu and the Besakih Temple on the slopes of holy Mount Agung – plus palaces and dozens of colourful festivals and ceremonies including the Hiindu ritual of tooth filing and cremations with drama, music and dance.

The tourist strip from Kuta to Legian and Seminyak is a hedonist’s dream, with plenty of clubs, bars and pubs that are packed with revellers from all corners of the globe in the dry, warm winter months from May to September. Hit the Bounty Hotel if you’re up for a big night, or cruise the bars along the beachfront and Poppies Lane.

The tranquil town of Ubud is a great escape into the cool, mountainous interior of Bali, away from the hectic pace of Kuta if you’re craving some peace and quiet. It also has a colourful daily market, famed for carvings and sculptures.

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Life’s a beach in Indonesia the island is also the perfect launching pad for cruises of the Indonesian archipelago. There are literally hundreds of cruises from Bali through to Lombok, Sumbawa, Sulawesi and the Moluccas. You can choose from modern cruise liners, luxurious private yachts, and traditional Balinese schooners.

Jakarta At first glance, the Indonesian capital of Jakarta can seem like a smog-choked concrete jungle, but spend a little time here and you’ll fast come to recognise its charms.

A wild array of restaurants offer the best of Indonesia’s varied cuisine. There’s also a fascinating dock district that is well worth exploring, and markets that rival those of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. This, remember, is one of SouthEast Asia’s largest cities, so there is plenty here for the independent traveller.

A large chunk of Jakarta’s populace are immigrants from the other parts of the island of Java and the rest of Indonesia, so the capital is a vibrant mix of Javanese and Sundanese languages, culture, customs and traditional foods, making it an interesting city to get to know.

Kuningan and Jalan Sudirman make up Jakarta’s main CBD, and this is where you’ll find the gleaming skyscrapers, clean streets, Western malls and restaurants, and a huge variety of entertainment.

The endless gridlock and haze of smog might take a little getting used to. It’s no coincidence foreign residents nickname Jakarta ‘The big durian’ – the tropical fruit that has both a strong odour and is an acquired taste. However, there’s no denying the city is a bustling urban metropolis that never sleeps.

Jakarta’s Chinatown (Glodok) is a landmark neighbourhood full of tantalising restaurants, markets and a wealth of interesting shops to explore that is well worth a visit. Getting there is fairly easy because it isn’t far from Jakarta Kota Station and, when you’re finished, wander 84

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around Fatahillah Square in the town centre or explore the beautiful Orchid Garden at Slipi.

The Jakarta History Museum, housed in the old Batavia Town Hall, is an interesting look at Indonesia’s past and one of the city’s solid reminders of Dutch rule.

Jakarta is also home to plenty of rather odd monuments and giant statues – a legacy of former President Soekarno’s

Rice terraces, Bali

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socialist ideals. One of the most impressive is the 132m flametopped National Monument.

A 10-minute walk from Taman Fatahillah, the old port of Sunda Kelapa is home to a flotilla of magnificent Makassar schooners. The bright-painted ships are a key transport and freight delivery link between Jakarta and the outer islands.

They’re also one of the capital’s main tourist attractions.

While it’s not oozing late-night discos and clubs, Jakarta nevertheless has a thriving after-dark entertainment scene, particularly in Kemang, where there are a number of good pubs. Kemang’s main rival is Jalan Jaksa, which as well as being home to good pubs and clubs, is also a good place to find cheap hostels and accommodation.

Jakarta at rush hour: Busy

Java Jakarta is of course on Java, and while there may not be any great beaches to speak of on the island, it does lay the bold, yet justifiable, claim to having the most mesmerising temple in South-East Asia and many fantastic volcanoes to hike.

Rise with the morning adhan (call to prayer) for a dawn

“

Jakarta is more than a concrete jungle

”

viewing of the 8th-century Buddhist temple Borobudur, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Indonesia’s biggest draws, and you can explore the intricate lattice stupas while the morning mist unveils the surrounding paddy fields.

Once abandoned, Borobudur is one of the largest Buddhist monuments in the world, containing around 500 statues of Buddha. The monument was built between 840AD and 780AD to resemble a mandala – a wheel-shaped symbol of the cosmos. Walking up the monument is said to replicate the path to enlightenment, beginning at the base in the realm of desire and ending with the realm of formlessness at the top.

When you’ve scaled that, you can hike (or take a 4x4) up Mount Bromo for lunar-like, cloud-carpeted views of Java’s nobbled volcanic spine of craters and smoke-spewing peaks.

Yoschi’s Guest House is located at Ngadisari, which lies about five kilometers from the crater rim, or you can choose Cafe Lava Hostel or the Cemara Indah Hotel at Cemoro Lawang, which are even closer.

Lombok and the Gili Islands Lombok is a low-key island situated east of Bali that remains a sleepy, peaceful getaway from the chaos of its western neighbour. Rice paddies line the roads and farmers still plough the land. The hardest decisions a visitor has to make are whether to have banana pancakes or fresh fruit salad for breakfast, and which beach to take a dip at to cool off from the ever-present equatorial sunshine.

Lombok is the most popular destination in Nusa Tenggara as it is home to the fabled Gili Islands – the perfect spot for a Robinson Crusoe adventure. The Gilis dot along Lombok’s north-eastern fringe, a strip of tiny jungle-and-sand islands, haloed by kaleidoscopic coral reef, all without cars, crowds or complexity. We wouldn’t recommend staying there, as lovely as the Gilis are, because they have little in the way of comforts, so it is best to visit for the day and stay back on Lombok – on the Gili-facing side, of course.

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this place – and marvel as the kind-eyed orang-utans loop through the trees before meeting the Dayak Tribes.

Kalimantan Tours (kalimantantours.com), offers a range of jungle trips throughout the region, including Derawan, a fishing island about three hours by speedboat from Berau that has developed as a dive resort, attracting divers from around the world.

GETTING AROUND

Orang-utan tours bring thousands to Indonesia annually Sumatra The island of Nias, off northern Sumatra, was home to headhunting tribes as recently as the 1980s. While lopping off skulls is discouraged now, the island remains a treasure trove for intrepid travellers keen to check out this ancient culture, while exploring the island’s verdant rainforests, surfing the world-class waves or diving on brilliant coral reefs.

Sumatra is the home of Krakatoa – actually it is between Sumatra and Java on the Sunda Strait – the famous volcanic island whose eruption in August 1883 was one of the most deadly of modern history. It is estimated more than 36,000 people died. The island is about three miles wide and 5.5 miles long and, before the historic eruption, it had three linked volcanic peaks: Perboewatan, the northernmost and most active; Danan in the middle; and the largest, Rakata, forming the southern end of the island. Krakatau and the two nearby islands, Lang and Verlatan, are remnants of a previous large eruption that left an undersea caldera between them (see krakatau-tour.com).

Sumatra is also, and rather significantly, one of the few places left in the world where elephants, rhinos and tigers live together in the wild. Critically endangered wild tigers are fighting to survive in the face of widespread poaching and forest-clearing. Across Sumatra, there are fewer than 400 tigers left, and they are extinct on the nearby islands of Java and Bali (see sumatratigertours.com).

An ambitious travel itinerary could turn a relaxing holiday into a frantic race when visiting Indonesia. Buses and trains can be slow and crowded and many travellers opt to hire a car or moped. Off the beaten track, especially on remote islands, travelling can be pretty unpredictable and, occasionally, downright impossible.

Like most Asian countries, the local bus is the mainstay when it comes to transport. Buses link virtually every city in Indonesia with every other city and they are dirt cheap as well – just expect to share your seat with chickens and maybe a goat or two.

Otherwise, a high speed train links Bali with Jakarta and ferries also ply the deepwater channels between the islands, though high-speed vessels are a rarity.

In Jakarta, tuk-tuks are a substitute for taxi cabs.

Make sure you haggle with the driver for a decent price. Otherwise, taxis are common in Bali and, while they have meters, it’s also better to agree on a price with the driver before you set off.

GETTING THERE Garuda is the national airline, flying directly into Bali’s Denpasar airport as well as into the capital, Jakarta, on the island of Java – in total it services 33 domestic cities.

Medan is the major hub on Sumatra, with flights linking it to many major cities within Asia.

You can also enter Indonesia via ferry from Singapore THAILAND– the trip from Kuala Lumpur to Medan and Malaysia takes just a few hours, and has been a major route for surfers and travel junkies needing to renew their Indonesian tourist visas (the type of visa you need depends on your nationality, the purpose of your stay and how long you intend to visit. See indo.com/tplan/visa).

Kalimantan

Photos: Getty

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The untamed island of Borneo (of which Kalimantan makes up around two thirds) has enchanted adventurers since the days of the great Victorian explorers – and today little has diluted that raw experience.

Home to an amazingly beautiful rainforest, bonethrough-the-nose tribes (the sorts of which you expect to see in a King Kong movie) and the largest population of orangutans in the world (cute huh?), this is just the spot to find the last corners of wilderness, untouched by human hand.

River boating into the ‘heart of darkness’ through the Tanjung National Park is one of the most popular ways to see TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

MALAYSIA MEDAN

KUALA LUMPAR SINGAPORE SINGAPORE

INDONESIA

JAKARTA BALI JAVA

TOUR SEARCH DESIGN 1

TOUR SEARCH For the last 30 years TNT Magazine has brought travel advice and news to a growing audience of travellers. 18 to 35 year olds from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Europe have been using TNT as their guide to living and working in the UK and Australia. With a growing audience comes growing demand and over quarter of a million users are now demanding travel offers and information for tours across the globe.

Here at TNT we have listened to the demands of our readers and we’re excited to launch TNT Tours.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend in Dublin, a group tour across Australia, or a ten day epic adventure in South America, the TNT Tour Search facility is here to meet your travel wishes.

With tours being added on a daily basis and reviews to give you peace of mind, TNT Tours will become your primary destination when looking to travel anywhere around the globe and you know the process will be as good as you can get anywhere else, if not better.

t a ki n g y ou w h e re y ou d rea m t o be... tntmagazine.com/toursearch

ARE YOU SPOTTED IN THE CIRCLE?

WIN

If that’s you in the circle, send an email with a photo of yourself and the title ‘Spotted’ to jaqui.ward@tntmagazine. com. Boom! You’ve won a $100 bar tab at Scubar.

Like us on facebook/ tntdownunder for more party pics from the night

SCUEY SATURDAYS MAY 2014

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DESPERATELYSEEKING

Are you desperately seeking someone or something? Email ian.armitage@tntmagazine.com with your message Ugly naked why? I see you, naked as the day you were born, cleaning your wing wang. Dude, buy a blind for that bathroom window. Watching you shower is not a pleasurable experience, although my friend thinks you are hot. Mark P Plumber wanted: We have a terrible leak in our new flat, thanks to the weirdo upstairs. Pumbler needed. Matt

Brie-lieve in love: You are the only woman I’ve ever seen who can eat a slice of brie without looking foolish. You’re my mouse. Hank.

Not exactly smitten: Harry, while you were away, I got a new fella. He’s better in bed. Bite me!

Hold me closer, angry Linda: Oh Linda, you run our local. You’re a mean bitch and horrible to everybody that comes in – God help anyone that asks for water! But

left a diary at my house. It has no name, and from what I can make out, you have a lot of appointments to keep this month – there’s pink marker all over the place! Please come and pick it up. It has a picture of a cat called Mel on the front.

Cheers, Korean Ian Mixtape madness: My mate set up a mixtape swap group, and you sent me one with Pulp, Kenickie and Blur on it; I never got your address

THINGS TONY ABBOTT SHOULD DO, JUST BECAUSE...

SAY WHAT?!

Thank you for bringing me a jacket, darling, but that’s not mine. Is that angry man its owner?

i’ve attached sticky tape and lemons to the bedroom door to repel the kittens.

if iT’s cold, she’ll sit under her hairdryer for hours.

i’m not averse to eating a whole packet of pitta bread, emmental and hummus on the way home from the supermarket on the bus.

we need to measure the shed! why haven’t you measured the shed? you haven’t even bought the wood!

Head to a student union and try to make friends. Sure they hate you but you’ve got big balls, right...?

Spider fan: Charles, I’m so glad I saved you from that fierce looking spider! He was being most unreasonable. Can I take you out for a pint? Eddie Go go loco: Kylie! Why won’t you respond to my letters?! Jason It’s him up north: I met you at a party in Cardwell, you’re backpacking in the NT. You were wearing orange and I think I love you. I was the woman with the eye patch. Ann The sweet smell of success: We were sheltering from the rain when you took cover – I welcomed the intrusion, who needs personal space? And you smelt lovely. Alice in Sydney (I had a wet hand – it was the rain, promise).

there is something in the way you move. At the risk of being knocked the hell out, will you date me? Ellis Peter parkour: Hey, weird English guy with the short hair and the bushy beard who’s travelling round Sydney. You said you’re name was Pete and your drunken attempts at parkour didn’t impress me or my mates but we hope you didn’t hurt yourself. You hit the floor pretty hard attempting that back flip. Casey I wanna pecs you up: Caitlyn, I see you struggling in the gym every day looking sad. I’ll be your workout buddy, if you like? Glenn from Belfast (living in Brisbane) x High society: I had a gathering at the end of May and someone

to return the favour! Please get in touch, and thanks so much! Sam from London (living in Perth) Tie me up: I’m looking for someone who is interested in foreplay using just office wear.

No flat shoes, please. I’m based in Sydney. Regards, Jeremy Break a leg: Annie, we’re so proud of you for bagging that job, but we’ll miss you so much. Lots of love from Sydney Backpackers.

Puppet plan: Alan, this weird plan that you have to make puppets out of glass will never take off.

Please stop talking about it in staff meetings. James (your boss).

Paper trail: Will the person continually stealing loo paper from our hostel STOP? Lucy P

There are pictures of them kissing all over instagram. i can’t bring myself to ‘like’ them yet.

six plus six equals 12, but – and this is important – 12 minus six equals six.

Dave, how do you spell GERMANY? I’ve got J - E - R. What’s the rest?

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Snow many jobs!

When the weather gets cold, follow the jobs to the snowfields EDITED BY IAN ARMITAGE

Winter in Australia can be pretty dull and dreary, especially if you’re in a capital city (sorry, but it’s true). It’s grey, wet and chilly: you can’t go to the beach because it’s cold but it isn’t hat and scarf weather – it’s just ‘meh’ weather really.

But if you head inland a bit, in the steep ranges of the well-named Snowy Mountains region, you find the snowfields.

Come June/July, they’re flooded with people chasing a little powder. Not only will you find more typically ‘winter’ weather, but if you find you’re short a few quid there are plenty of work opportunities too.

Jobs at Australian snowfields can basically be broken down into three categories: working in administrative roles, working in hospitality or childcare in one of the resorts or, probably the coolest of all, as an instructor. Obviously some of the jobs require you to have qualifications but many only need you to

turn up and show a bit of willingness and dedication. And while some frankly sound pretty mundane (lift operator anyone?), a lot of them are no doubt a lot of fun, and the pay, by and large, is pretty good.

Let’s start with hospitality, which is a pretty good bet for a job if you have a valid Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate (it is an absolute must). Likewise, with child care, you’ll need a minimum of Certificate III in Child Care.

Getting a job in the administrative/operations side of things can prove a bit of a challenge. For example if you wanted to work as a ski patroller you’ll need a current ASPA certificate (skipatrol.org.au), for which the course will set you back a few dollars. As an alternative you can earn fantastic wages working as a groomer or a snowmaker, but the hours are terribly long plus you’ll be expected to have had experience working at ski resorts before or you won’t get a look in.

Experience isn’t always necessary when it comes to being a ski instructor though but, like ski patrollers, you’ll need some qualifications before you can teach. You can do something like the Perisher Academy (perisher.com.au/ lessons-hire/instructor-academy), a seven-day programme designed to prepare individuals with no teaching experience towards the Australian Professional Snowsports Instructors (APSI) Level 1 Instructor exam. It’s a perfect entry point but it’ll cost you – some $1,755 in fact. The plus is you’ll be able to work with the Perisher Snowsports School upon completion. Applications close on June 20.

Whatever you do, don’t be put off. What you need to remember is that the benefits of working for a ski resort go much further than just a steady source of income – we’re talking free season passes to all the main fields and terrain parks, free lessons (if you need them), discounts on food and drink and discount equipment hire. Plus, because the snowfields are fairly remote, accommodation can be extremely cheap (and we mean CHEAP) – if you have to even pay for it that is.

What are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy Perisher (the biggest snowfield in the southern hemisphere), Thredbo, Mt Buller, Selwyn and much more.

Each resort has their own hiring process and information on how to apply can be found through their various websites: thredbo.com.au, mtbuller.com.au, perisher.com. au, and selwynsnow.com.au. We also suggest looking at apsi.net.au, tour operator sites such as ozsnowadventures. com.au, or a recruitment site (seek.com.au for example).

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