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December 2015 Issue 760

!!YE IN W N DOUBLE

2 VIP PARTY TICKETS + CHAMPERS!

WAY OUT WEST Getting up close and personal with WA’s wildlife

GIRT BY SEA We reveal our favourite Aussie Islands

!

G N A B A H T I W T U GOING O at covered. th t o g e ’v e New Year? W e th in g in r omewhere to Looking for s

+ TOP TEN OZ DESTINATIONS BEST BEACHES GREAT LAKE TAUPO BIG TRIP MACCU PICHU

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GET HOPPING TO AUSTRALIA TODAY!

AUSTRALIAN IMMIGRATION MADE EASY We specialise in Employer Sponsored Visas (ENS, RSMS, 457 etc), Family Migration, Skilled Migration, Review Applications and any other visas.

+61 (2) 9221 0370

www.visacorp.com.au

Registered migration agents 0104178 / 0317382 / 0955711

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EDITORIAL Editor James Clark james.clark@tntmagazine.com DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Design and production manager Lisa Ferron lisa.ferron@tntmagazine.com SALES Sales manager Jaqui Ward jaqui.ward@tntmagazine.com STARTRACK MEDIA LTD CEO Kevin Ellis Chairman Ken Hurst PUBLISHER Startrack Media Ltd PRINTED BY Spotpress PICTURES iStock | TNT Images | Supplied Cover image: iStock TNT Magazine online tntdownunder.com

WHERE TO GET TNT

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

FROM THE EDITOR Australia is the largest island in the world (we disqualified Greenland on a technicality) and fringed across its extensive coastline are more than 8,200 smaller islands. With so many to choose from, there’s bound to be one you’ll love, so we’ve put together a list of Australia’s top 10 island getaways. From Rottnest in the West to Fraser in the East, and the Whitsundays in the North to Bruny in the South, each one offering its own unique island escape for any type of coast loving tourist.

Once you visit Lake Taupo (the Aussies like to call it the Taupo Trap), you probably won’t want to leave. Our short guide will give you an idea of what’s on offer around this North Island gem.

Australia has great cities, but it’s the huge expanse of wild, massively varied and largely empty natural bits that really makes it one of the world’s most exciting countries. It’s a place that demands you get out and explore. Get yourself into the Red Centre of this amazing country and find yourself in a wildness like you’ve never seen before. With so much to see and do take a look at our guide.

It took us a little while to research our top five Australian beaches guide, we had to try them out after all. Our advice, plan out your stay to visit every single one of them.

Join Andrew Westbrook at the base of the Inca Steps as he climbs the 400 metre near vertical centuries old steps in the pitch black. The journey to the bucket list destination of Machu Picchu sounds challenging to say the least, but if you feel like taking an easier route there is a bus.

I would like to take a moment to wish all of our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

If any of you fancy writing for us send me an email.

James jamesclark@ntmagazine.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.

Western Australia

Australia’s best islands

Great Lake Taupo

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THIS MONTH EDS LETTER

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DIARY 6 FOOD & DRINK 10 PUBS

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GIGS 16 INTERVIEW

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NEW YEAR IN SYDNEY

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TRAVEL TOP 5: AUSSIE BEACHES 32 OZ TRIP: WA

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48 HOURS ON CAP COAST

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TOP 10: DESTINATIONS 42 BEST ISLANDS

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NZ: GREAT LAKE TAUPO

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BIG TRIP: MACHU PICCHU

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AUSTRALIA LISTINGS

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NEW ZEALAND LISTINGS

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CAREERS 90

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ON THE COVER NEW YEAR IN STYLE

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We give you the tour of our favourite haunts in and around Sydney for ringing in the New Year.

TOP 5 BEACHES

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Choosing just 5 beaches from the 27,000 miles of coastline around this amazing country is by no means an easy task but we give it a go!

OZ TRIP WA

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Sometimes overlooked by the traveller due to it’s geographical isolation, Western Australia is a haven for the adventurous.

48 HOURS ON THE CAPRICORN COAST

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Take a spin down or up to the Capricorn Coast, a gorgeous stretch of coastline roughly starting near Rockhampton down towards Fraser Island - you won’t regret it.

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OZDIARY

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OUR TOP PICKS SYDNEY WINTER WONDERLAND

ROLEX SYDNEY TO HOBART

Dec 6 - 24 Sydney

Dec 26 Sydney/Hobart

Included in the magical experience are super awesome amusement rides, Santa, elves, reindeer and just about everything else that you’d expect from this Christmas event.

The icon of summer sport, starting in Sydney and finishing in Hobart. The distance is 630 nautical miles (1170 km) and attracts yachts from all around the globe.

$40

FREE

Starts at 1pm Get a vanatge point for the start of the race anywhere you can on the Harbour shores rolexsydneyhobart.com

Times vary Rosehill Gardens Grand Pavilion, Sydney sydneysantaspectacular.com

MUST DO SYDNEY NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS Dec 31, Sydney Harbour FREE

Photo: Hamilton Lund, Destination NSW

The spectacular fireworks displays are televised and watched by revellers all over the world. Whether you’re meeting friends in a public viewing area, attending a rooftop bar party, or cruising the harbour, you’re in for a magical experience as you see in a new year.

This is the place to be on New Year’s Eve. Various sydneynewyearseve.com

SANTA FEST Until Dec 24, Sydney FREE

Christmas cheer for the month before Christmas. The free open air cinema will show Santa films on Friday and Saturday nights as well as some of Sydney’s finest acapella, soul and gospel choirs and the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Choir and the Symphonic Wind Orchestra.

Times vary Darling Harbour sydney.com

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NEW YEARS EVE CRUISES Dec 31 Sydney Experience a New Year’s Eve Cruise in Sydney aboard a boat to bring in the New Year in sensational style. Watch the fireworks from the best vantage point ever- on the very harbour itself. Various cruises available, take a look online at what’s on offer.

VAR

Times vary Sydney Harbour sydneyharbourescapes.com.au

SYDNEY FESTIVAL Jan 7- 26, Sydney VAR

Exuberant, exciting and forever effervescent - the best time to experience Sydney is in January, when the city is in full celebratory mode.

Sydney Festival presents the best of the world’s performing and visual arts, all coming together in an avalanche of artistic activity.

Times vary Across Sydney sydneyfestival.org.au

APIA INTERNATIONAL SYDNEY Jan 10 - 16 Sydney VAR

Apia International promises to be one of the best tennis experiences in the nation. It’s a key international sports event on the 2016 NSW Events Calendar. Please visit the website for further updates on the 2016 event.

Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre apiainternational.com.au sydneysantaspectacular.com

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Photo: Margaret RiverFestival Gourmet Escape Photo: Night Owls Film

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NIGHT OWLS FILM FESTIVAL Jan 8 - 24, Sydney Perched and ready to nest at Sydney’s Darling Quarter the Festival pops up beside one of Sydney’s most spectacular playgrounds, with more screenings than ever before.

Children and their adult friends will have a hoot.

Times vary

Village Green (North), Darling Quarterdarlingquarter.com

CARVE PRO

Jan 15 - 17, Coogee Promising professional surfers from all over the world can look forward to four new World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 1000 events, when the NSW Pro Surf Series kicks off on the NSW. It’s great fun, so I’d keep your diary dates free to avoid disappointment.

VAR

8pm Various beaches NSW swprosurfseries.com

SYDNEY SIXERS VERSUS SYDNEY THUNDER Jan 16 ,Sydney Watch the pitch get set alight this summer with the inaugural rebel Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).The Sydney Cricket Ground will play host to the local derby between Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder ladies cricket teams.

VAR

Starts at1pm

Moore Park

cricket.com.au

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Photo: Fun Run Pink and Triathlon Pink

Photo: Courtesy of www.burleighswimrun.com.au

The Slater + Gordon Burleigh Swim Run Australia Day (26th January) Challenge

PERTH

GOLD COAST

CAIRNS

TWILIGHT HAWKERS MARKET UNTIL APR 29 / 4.30PM - 9.30PM Around 40 stalls and food trucks there’s something to satisfy just about all tastes and trends.Look out for the pop-ups.

CAROLS ON THE BEACH DEC 20 / 6.30PM / FREE Some of the biggest and best Australian ‘80s stars. We know you weren’t there the first time round, but it’s a lot of fun and we bet you’d love it. Surfers Paradise Beach, Gold Coast

NEW YEAR’S EVE 2015 DEC 31 / 4PM - 6PM / FREE The Esplanade will once again come alive for New Year’s Eve, with an exciting musical line-up to ring in 2016. Sydney funk/soul artist James Fox Higgins will bring his nine-piece band to Cairns to headline the celebrations.

Perth city centre twilighthawkersmarket.com

NEW YEARS CARNIVAL DEC 31 8PM / $140 Sexy Latin beats from Orquesta Yambeque and our top DJ’s banging out club classics and Old school R&B the party will be going to the early hours.

Malt Supper Club, Perth events.ticketbooth.com.au

PERTH WILDCATS V SYDNEY KINGS JAN 15 / 5.30PM - 8.30PM / $10.20+ American excitement machine Casey Prather joins fan favourites Damian Martin, Shawn Redhage and Jermaine Beal.

Perth Arena, Perth twilighthawkersmarket.com

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surfersparadise.com

NEW YEAR’S EVE CARNIVAL DEC 27 - 31 / 4PM - 10PM / FREE Bring a crowd and count down the New Year beneath one of the largest fireworks displays in Queensland. This will be an unforgettable evening, that goes on for four days.

Surfers Paradise Beach, Gold Coast surfersparadise.com

SLATER AND GORDON AUSTRALIA DAY BURLEIGH SWIM RUN DEC 20 / 6.30PM / FREE What started as a fun community fitness event has become an iconic Australia Day event, open to all. The events involve swimming and running!

Burleigh Beach burleighswimrun.com.au

Fogarty Park

cairns.qld.gov.au

CAIRNS ESPLANADE MARKETS JAN 2 / 8AM + / FREE Every Saturday, between 8am and 4pm, the market stalls showcase items crafted by the people who sell them. The quality stalls include jewellery, leather work, pottery, airbrush tattoos, clothes, skincare and more.

Cairns Esplanade by the lagoon cairns.qld.gov.au

KURANDA HERITAGE MARKETS JAN 3 / 9.30 AM to 3.30 PM / FREE Enjoy the market in the rainforest.

Open every day. Rob Veivers Drive, Kuranda

kurandamarkets.com.au

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NEW ZEALAND

SYDNEY SIXERS T20 BIG BASH LEAGUE AT THE SCG DEC 20 - JAN 16 / 4.20PM / $20 The Sydney Sixers are the Rock Stars of the T20 Big Bash League, playing at the iconic SCG over summer. A night at the Sixers is the ultimate family entertainment experience. Enjoy fireworks, music and the excitement of T20 Cricket in a friendly atmosphere. This afternoon versus Hobart Hurricanes, bound to bring a storm.

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOD TRUCKS EVERY FRI / 4PM - 9PM / FREE A variety of food trucks will be there each week. Grab some street food, relax in a fair-like atmosphere and make some new friends while you’re at it. Time to practise that festive cheer.

Sydney Sixers, Driver Avenue, Moore Park, Sydney

sydneysixers.com.au

AWKWARD CHRISTMAS PORTRAITS AT MELBOURNE CENTRAL UNTIL DEC 20 / ALL DAY / VARIES The traditional Santa photos will be replaced this festive season with the return of Awkward Christmas Portraits. Bring your mates down and strike your best pose with hilarious props and old-fashioned backdrops.

Melbourne Central, Cnr LaTrobe & Swanston Street melbournecentral.com.au

BOXING DAY TEST DEC 26 - 30 / VARIES There are few events in the Australian sporting calendar that evoke as much passion as Test cricket, and the Boxing Day Test is at the pinnacle. Be a part of the action at the MCG for the Commonwealth Bank Boxing Day Test between Australia and the West Indies.

Melbourne Cricket Ground, Brunton Avenue, East Melbourne

cricket.com.au

MIDSUMMA FESTIVAL JAN 17 - FEB 7 / 4.20PM / VARIES Midsumma Festival is Melbourne’s annual queer celebration. A federation of arts and cultural events spread over 85 different venues throughout Melbourne and regional Victoria. It brings a diverse mix of artists and performers together under a single umbrella for an impassioned celebration and innovative presentation of queer arts and culture. The festival program is made up of a wide range of events and activities including visual art, theatre, spoken word, cabaret, film, live music, parties, sport, social events and public forums. Each year over 160,000 individuals from around the globe participate in and attend. Surely Mr Right must be in there somewhere.

Alexandra Gardens, St Kilda Road, Melbourne

midsumma.org.au

WATCH THIS

Cathedral Square, Cathedral Square, Christchurch

futurechristchurch.co.nz

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS HOUSE UNTIL DEC 24 / FREE Every year the house and front lawn are decorated with Christmas lights, with a live Santa onsite from 10 Dec - 24 Dec (weather permitting). This year they will be raising money by donation to support the Pukekohe Volunteer Fire Brigade. Go along, enjoy the lights display and throw a few dollars into the donation bucket.

Christmas Lights House, 25 Prospect Terrace, Pukekohe, Auckland South eventfinda.co.nz

FIESTA OF LIGHTS UNTIL JAN 2 / 9PM+ / $5 A fairyland of light displays along tree lined walkways surrounded by thousands of sparkling lights. Started in 1998 this holiday event has grown in size and popularity and offers an interactive and fun experience for young and old.

There’s nightly stage entertainment.

On New Year’s eve gates open at 8.30pm. There’s family entertainment, a giant slide, obstacle course and a spectacular fireworks display for the kiddies at 9.45am. Hot food and drinks on sale. Check the website for full list of what’s going on.

Hawke’s Bay A & P Showgrounds, Hastings, Hawkes Bay fiestaoflights.co.nz

BRITOMART BEACH PARTY NEW YEARS EVE DEC 31 - JAN 1 / 2PM – 4AM / $59 Britomart Beach Party, back from 3 Sold Out In Advance years, is bringing the beach back to Auckland City this New Year’s Eve.Grapevinyl and Britomart bring you the ultimate inner city beach part. Each venue is beach themed and filled with sand, with top music acts and booze.

Relaxed dress code so you may as well wear your flipflops.

Britomart, Cnr Gore & Galway Streets, Auckland

AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2016 If you can’t get tickets for the Australian Open in Melbourne or like us you can’t get the time out of the office you can watch the twist and turns of the tournamnet from the comfort of your armchair.

The Australian Open typically has high attendance, second only to the US Open.

Melbourne skysports.com

britomartbeachparty.co.nz

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OZEATS

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BITE SIZE STOMACH FOR HEIGHTS? If you want to take in a meal with a staggering view of Canberra’s sprawling cityscape then look no further than Lookout Red Hill Cafe Bar and Restaurant (the clue’s in the name). You’ll find a versatile menu from wraps, pizzas and burgers to steak, grilled fish and pork belly in a quaint, cosy setting. onred.com.au

CHECK OUT THIS BIRD Blackbird Cafe in Darling Harbour is the perfect place for a lazy lunch with a great view (see below, but it looks over the water too...). The menu here lends itself perfectly to lunch with a group – moderately priced, big meals, cheap tap beers and house wine and a big interior that can comfortably seat large numbers. blackbirdcafe.com.au

MOJO RECORD BAR Bar, Sydney

Situated down York Street below a men’s discount clothing shop, Mojo Record fuses the two things that are most conducive to a happy night – or day for that matter: music and drinking. A collaboration between joint owners Neville Sergent, who used to run the original store a couple of streets down, and long-time fans Daniel McManus and Jon Ruttan, it’s a sumptuous cavern of dimly lit booths, red leather, dark wood and music merchandise. LPs line the walls and ceilings and gig posters adorn the surroundings, advertising ‘new’ bands such as The Beatles or Sonic Youth in support of artists long since faded from memory. It could not be more cool, yet there’s no pretentiousness. Loud at weekends, with live bands rocking up, but more mellow on early weekday evenings, it’s the kind of place that you don’t want to come with anyone too interesting or chatty, for fear of having to tell them to belt up whilst you listen to the tunes.

THE GRUB The hearty beer-battered chips and sharing platters are tasty, while pizza delivered from Taglio a few doors down is thin but fluffy and delicious.

BEHIND THE BAR Craft beers on tap from local breweries are delivered via old-school hand-pumps and only available in a two-litre growler. The wines all have a NSW focus, and the cocktail names are clever takes on famous musical phrases.

BILL PLEASE It’s not cheap, but given the location, far from pricey. Beers start at $8, wines at $9, all cocktails are $19, and that two-litre growler comes in at $40.

VERDICT High Fidelity without the judgemental staff, washed down with good drinks. Take me back. Review by Francesca Baker THE SCENE

Photos: Blackbird Cafe / Mojo Record Bar

PERFECT PIT-STOP

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Famous for its warm hospitality and massive Sunday sessions, The Pier Bar & Grill in Cairns also makes seriously delicious steak. The food is not only tasty it’s also affordable – big servings of pasta, pizza and other mains usually run at $12, which makes it perfect for fuelling up before a big night or meeting in large groups. The Pier hospitality is down to earth and it has possibly the best views in Cairns, overlooking the water. pierbar.com.au

73 York Street, Sydney

mojorecordbar.com

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THE EVERLEIGH Cocktails, Melbourne

One of the criticisms regularly levelled at the cocktail bar community is that it is prone to originality-sapping fads. So, it was with trepidation I read that The Everleigh on Gertrude Street, in Melbourne’s Fitzroy, is a Prohibition-themed speakeasy. Oh lore! Another? But originality really is the most overrated virtue, especially in the cocktail world. I don’t care how innovative your new cocktail ingredients are, the resulting concoction doesn’t taste better than a perfect Manhattan does it? And, let me be blunt: everything at The Everleigh is perfect.

I could spends sentences effusing over the beautiful surrounds and flawless staff, but it’s the cocktails we need to get down to.

BEHIND THE BAR I start with an Old Fashioned, which is comfortably the best I’ve had in this hemisphere. But, it is my second drink that provides definitive evidence as to the special talent behind the bar. I ask the waiter for something bitter but fresh, what arrives is a rye-whiskey masterpiece: It has levels of complexity I’m tempted to compare to a Marcel Proust sentence, but I won’t.

THE GRUB If you asked for food here I imagine you’d be asked to leave.

BILL PLEASE Cocktails from $20, champagne from $15.

VERDICT The best bar I’ve been to in Australia, so probably the best bar in Australia according to me.

THE SCENE

Review by Oli Jones

3 OF THE BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK JOINTS

CHAT THAI

CHILLIPADI

HEMMESPHERE

This is hands down one of the best Thai restuarants in Sydney and the supper menu is out of this world. A must order is the kana mhu grob ($13) but there’s loads to choose from in this family owned and operated joint.

Their mission is simple: cook the stuff we crave! The only drawback is the queue to get in.

By now you’re probably thinking we’re night owls with a preference for Asian cuisine? You’re right. When we’re in Melbourne we usually head to Chillipadi.

We go not just because of the great Pad Thai but because it’s open until 5am Thursday to Saturday. This place never disappoints.

You’ll love it.

We’re in Sydney again but this time we’re scoffing mini burgers at 1am. Yes, mini wagyu penny burgers. Nom. Hemmesphere’s late night supper menu is available 10.30pm till 3am Wednesday to Saturday. What’s better than having a beer on a comfy leather couch and eating some fine food?

Okay, sex, but not much else.

chatthai.com.au

chillipadi.com.au

merivale.com.au/hemmesphere

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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 Pavilion 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

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In Situ 1/18 Sydney Rd, Manly insitumanly.com.au Kinselas Hotel 383 Bourke St, Darlinghurst kinselas.com.au Marlborough Hotel 145 King St, Newtown marlboroughhotel.com.au Mount Batten Hotel 701 George Street, CBD sydneycityhostels.com.au New Brighton Hotel 71 The Corso, Manly newbrightonhotel.com.au Oxford Art Factory 38-46 Oxford St, Darlinghurst oxfordartfactory.com

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

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

MELBOURNE

Shamiana 420 Lonsdale St, CBD shamiana.com.au

Scary Canary 469 Kent St, CBD scarycanarybar.com

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

Star Bar 160 Clarendon Street starbarhotel.com.au

Scubar 4 Rawson Place, CBD scubar.com.au

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

The Gin Mill 173 High St, Prahran theginmillprahran.com

Side Bar 509 Pitt St, CBD wakeup.com.au/sidebar

Brutale 18 Corrs Lane, CBD brutale.com.au

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

The Beresford 354 Bourke St, Surry Hills

Black Pearl 304 Brunswick St, Fitzroy

Ryan’s Paragon Hotel Loftus St, CBD hotelparagon.com.au

The Night Owl 35 Elizabeth Street, CBD facebook.com

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The Night Cat 137-141 Johnston St, Fitzroy thenightcat.com.au The Penny Black 420 Sydney Road, Brunswick thepennyblack.com.au The Tote 67-71 Johnston Street, Coll. thetotehotel.com Turf Bar 131 Queen St, CBD turfbar.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 Grace Emily Hotel 232 Waymouth St, CBD yourbars.com.au The Promethean 116 Grote St, CBD theprom.com.au

PERTH The Clink 14-16 South Terrace, Fremantle

Photo: SATC

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EXETER HOTEL An unpretentious Adelaide institution that doubles as a major student hangout, the Exeter Hotel is an old-fashioned east end pub that’s friendly, does good food and often has bands playing. Grab a table and order a pitcher of beer or carafe of wine.

152 Semaphore Rd, Adelaide, South Australia exeterhotel.com.au

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OZPUBS

follow us on 14 Railway St, Wickham lassogowriehotel.com.au

BEER DAYS

Mary Ellen Hotel 57 Railway St, Mereweather maryellenhotel.com.au Oriental Hotel 53 Bull St, Cooks Hill facebook.com/theorihotel

Castros 5 Victoria Street facebook.com/castros

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

Glasshouse Nightclub 90 Crown Street facebook.com/ sucasawollongong

Photo: Coolangatta Sands Hotel

Silo Restaurant and Lounge 18/1 Honeysuckle Dr, CBD silolounge.com.au Sunnyside Tavern 20 Broadmeadow Rd, Broadmeadow sunnysidetavern.com.au

Affectionately known as ‘The Sands’, this hotel is just 100m from the surf and has a relaxed atmosphere, regular live music and backpacker accommodation upstairs so you can even crash for the night. Cnr Griffith & McLean Sts coolangattasandshotel.com.au

theclink.com.au Subiaco Hotel 465 Hay Street, Subiaco subiacohotel.com.au The Shed 69-71 Aberdeen St, Northbr. the-shed.com.au The Windsor 112 Mill Point Rd, thewindsorsouthperth.com.au Voodoo Lounge 174 James St, Northbridge thevoodoolounge.com.au

BRISBANE Canvas Club 16b Logan St, Woolloongabba canvasclub.com.au GPO Hotel 740 Anne St, Fortitude Valley gpohotel.com.au Hotel LA 68 Petrie Terrace, CBD hotella.com.au Iceworks 157 Given Terrace, Paddington iceworks.com.au 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

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facebook.com Super Whatnot 48 Burnett Lane superwhatnot.com

GOLD COAST Benowa Tavern 117 Ashmore Rd, Benowa benowatavern.com.au

Republic Bar & Cafe 299 Elizabeth St, North Hobart republicbar.com

HOBART Bar Celona 23 Salamanca Sq, CBD barcelonahobart.com

Toro Bar 416 Milton Rd, Auchenflower

Raincheck Lounge 392 Elizabeth St, North Hobart rainchecklounge.com.au

DARWIN

Squires Tavern 3 Edmunds St, CBD squirestavern.com.au

NEWCASTLE

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

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

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

Byron Bay Brewery 1 Skinners Shoot Road byronbaybrewery.com.au

Shooters Superclub Shop 46 The Mark, Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise shooterssuperclub.com

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

OneFiveOne 150 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

The Duke 192 Macquarie Street CBD theduke.com.au

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

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

BYRON BAY

Ivory Nightclub 77 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Ducks Nuts 76 Mitchell St, CBD ducksnuts.com.au

Coolangatta Sands Hotel Griffith St, Coolangatta coolangattasandshotel.com.au

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

Wickham Park Hotel 61 Maitland Rd, Islington thewicko.com.au

Harp Hotel 124 Corrimal Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Beach Hotel Bay St beachhotel.com.au

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

CAIRNS

The Northern Star 112 Beaumont St, Hamilton northernstarhotel.com.au

Grand Hotel 234 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Shipwrights Arms 29 Trumpeter St, Battery Point shipwrightarms.com.au

Blush Nightclub 21 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise blushnightclub.com.au

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

WOLLONGONG Alibi 76 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

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

COOLANGATTA SANDS HOTEL

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Cambridge Hotel 789 Hunter St, CBD yourcambridge.com Cricketers Arms 61 Bruce St, Cooks Hill cricketersarmshotel.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 Treehouse on Belongil 25 Childe St treehouseonbelongil.com Woody’s Surf Shack 90-96 Jonson St woodysbyronbay.com

CANBERRA

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

Academy Club 15 Bunda St academyclub.com.au

Hamilton Station Hotel 2-6 Beaumont St, Islington hamiltonstation.com.au

Cube Nightclub 33 Petrie Plaza cubenightclub.com.au

Hotel Delany 134 Darby St, CBD hoteldelany.com

ICBM Bar 50 Northbourne Ave icbmbar.com

Kent Hotel 59-61 Beaumont St, Hamilton thekenthotel.com.au

Mooseheads 105 London Circuit mooseheads.com.au

King Street Hotel 15 Steel St, Newcastle West kingstreethotel.com.au Lass O’Gowrie

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 Firkin & Hound 21 Hartely St yourbars.com.au Monte’s Lounge Corner of Todd St & Stott Tce montes.net.au The Juicy Rump @ Lasseters 93 Barret Dr, Desert Springs lasseters.com.au

PJ O’Reilly’s 52 Alinga St pjoreillys.com.au

The Rock Bar 78 Todd St therockbar.com.au

Transit Bar 7 Akuna St transitbar.com.au

Todd Tavern 1 Todd St toddtavern.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 The Lumsden 444/448 Khyber Pass Rd, Newmarket thelumsden.co.nz

BACK IN BLACK

Malt Bar 442 Richmond Rd maltbar.co.nz

Normanby Hotel 37 Normandy Rd, Mt Eden thenormanbyhotel.co.nz Parnell Bar & Grill 196 Parnell Rd, Parnell parnellbarandgrill.co.nz Queens Ferry Hotel 12 Vulcan Ln queensferryhotel.co.nz Shakespeare Brewery 61 Albert St shakespearehotel.co.nz Spitting Feathers 16 Wyndham St spittingfeathers.co.nz Sprig & Fern 2 Drake St, Freemans Bay sprigandferntaverns.co.nz

Tainui Tavern 33 Morrin Rd menumania.co.nz The Fox 85/87 Customs St W thefox.co.nz

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

CHRISTCHURCH

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

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

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

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

4.20 bar 373 Karangahape Rd 420.co.nz

Becks Southern Alehouse 155 Colombo St beckssouthernalehouse.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

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

Four Kings Sports Bar 7-11 Dixon St fourkings.co.nz

Empire Hotel Lyttelton 9 London St, Lyttelton empirelyttelton.co.nz

Havana Coffee Works 163 Tory St, Te Aro havana..co.nz

Fox & Ferret Palms Palms Shopping Centre, 1 New Brighton Rd, Shirley foxpalms.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 Molly Malones 134 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro mollymalones.co.nz San Francisco Bath House 171 Cuba St, Te Aro sfbh.co.nz Southern Cross Garden Bar 39 Abel Smith St, Te Aro thecross.co.nz Sprig & Fern 342 Tinakori Rd sprigandferntaverns.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

Foundation Bar Maahanga Dr, Te Awa foundationbar.co.nz The Bank Bar & Brasserie Cnr Victoria St & Hood St thebank.co.nz The Cook 7 Cook St, Hamilton East thecook.net.nz Speights Ale House 30 Liverpool St speights-hamilton.co.nz Wonder Horse 236 Victoria St wonderhorse.co.nz

WHANGAREI Dickens Inn 71 Cameron St, Vinetown dickensinn.co.nz Killer Prawn 26-28 Bank St killerprawn.co.nz McCool’s 14 Rust Ave mccools.co.nz pub McMorrisseys Irish Pub 7 Vine St, Vinetown mcmorrisseys.co.nz Parua Bay Tavern 1034 Whangarei Heads Rd, Parua Bay paruabaytavern.co.nz Split Bar Rathbone St splitrestaurant.co.nz s 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

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

Bar 101 118 Victoria St bar101.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

The Green Man 25 Victoria St thegreenmanpub.co.nz

CBD Corner Pub 26 Hood St cbdpub.co.nz

Lonestar Restaurant & Bar 60 The Esplanade, Inner Kaiti lonestar.co.nz

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

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

Soho 2 Crawford Rd, Inner Kaiti sohobar.co.nz

GISBORNE Aladdin Bar/First Light Aikido 63 Peel St firstlighttaikido.net

The Poverty Bay Club 57/65 Customhouse St thepovertybayclub.co.nz The Jolly Stockman 3 Saleyards Rd yellow.co.nz Verve Cafe & Bar 121 Gladstone Rd facebook.com

NAPIER Guffle Bar 29A Hastings St, Napier South guffle.co.nz The Bank Sports Lounge 106 Hastings St facebook.com The Dutch at The Bluewater 10 W Quay, Ahuriri thedutch.co.nz The Gintrap Restaurant & Bar 64 W Quay, Ahuriri gintrap.co.nz The Rose Irish Pub 64 Hastings St masonic.co.nz The Thirsty Whale 62 W Quay, Ahuriri 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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GIGLISTINGS

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MUST SEE!

Saturday 26th of December is business as usual for LNDRY and we are as keen to party as we reckon you lot are! Its boxing day and we have a super special night planned with non other than the legend that is Doorly stopping by to spin some tunes. Master of the decks and presiding over an electronic melting pot of House, techno, electro, Future Garage and everything in between, Doorly’s skill and passion are relentless. chineselaundryclub.com.au

SUN DEC 20 The Stray Dogs Hip Shakin’ Christmas Extravaganza Free Entry The Merton Hotel, Sydney tempuranights.bandcamp.com

MON DEC 21 Tempura Nights East Coast Tour Free Entry Newtown Social Club, Sydney themertonhotel.com.au

WED DEC 23 The Gin Mill Social $99 Slide, Sydney slide.com.au The Christmas Show Free Entry Rock Lily, Sydney acebook.com/ events/178925349120682 Boxing Day and Night Party $18 Cargo Bar, Sydney kingdomsounds.oztix.com.au Gypsies & Gentlemen $16.80 The Vanguard, Sydney thevanguard.com.au

Chinese Laundry, Sydney merivale.com.au Boxing Day and Night Party $10 Cargo Bar, Sydney El Vez £15 Newtown Social Club, Sydney elvez.net

THU DEC 31 Nicky Night Time $75.15 Cargo Bar, Sydney New Tricks Farewell Gig, New Year’s Eve Free Entry Collaroy Beach Services Club, Sydney thebeachclub.com.au Be-Bop-Alula With DJ Kiwi Willy Free Club Liverpool, Sydney clubliverpool.com.au

FR1 JAN 1 Field Day Sydney 2016 $138 The Domain, Sydney fieldday.sydney

SAT JAN 2

SAT DEC 26 Doorly $25

16

Mac Miller Free

The Forum Theatre, Sydney

FRI JAN 8

Yung Lean Debut Australian Tour $49 Max Watt’s, Sydney handsometours.com

Soak (aka. Bridie Monds-Watson) $39 Newtown Social Club, Sydney handsometours.ticketscout.com.au

Wavves $48 Oxford Art Factory, Sydney moshtix.com.au

The Very Worst of the Tiger Lillies $69 Hyde Park North, Sydney sydneyfestival.org.au

SUN JAN 3 Agent Orange $45 The Factory Theatre, Sydney factorytheatre.com.au Leon Bridges $58 Metro Theatre, Sydney premier.ticketek.com.au The Wombats $77 Hordern Pavilion, Sydney thewombats.co.uk

MON JAN 4

Secrets $45 Hyde Park North , Sydney sydneyfestival.org.au Winterreeise $99 Hyde Park North, Sydney sydneyfestival.org.au Nicky Night Time $11.90 The Beery, Terrigal

SAT JAN 9 Archie Roach And MFTCC $85 Sydney Opera House, Sydney ivenation.com.au

Photo: merivale.com.au

DOORLY AT CHINESE LAUNDRY

Summer Sounds In The Domain: The Flaming Lips Free Art Gallery Road, Sydney sydneyfestival.org.au

FRI JAN 15 Pretty Lights, Opiuo and Emancipator $76.36 624 George Street, Sydney rainbowserpent.ne Dirty Three $69+ State Theatre, Sydney sydneyfestival.org.au Holy Holy - A Heroine Tour $28.70 Oxford Art Factory, Sydney moshtix.com.au Thee Oh Sees $25 Newtown Social Club, Sydney newtownsc.ticketscout.com.au

SUN JAN 17

Gary Clark Jr. $107.44 Sydney Opera House, Sydney ivenation.com

Neck Deep and State Champs Summer Tour 2016 $45 Metro Theatre, Sydney metrotheatre.com.au

R5 And Jack & Jack $78 Big Top, Luna Park, 1 Olympic Drive r5rocks.com

The Maccabees $55 Metro Theatre, Sydney premier.ticketek.com.au

Jack Colwell $15 Newtown Social Club, Sydney newtownsc.ticketscout.com.au

Le1f (US) Australia Tour 2016 $39 Oxford Art Factory, Sydney le1f.com

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WIN

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HOW TO ENTER

Go to tntdownunder.com/competitions See webpage for terms and conditions. Winners will be selected at random.

the paragon

the orient

ship inn

WIN TWO DOUBLE VIP HARBOUR Worth PASSES TO THE BEST NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY IN TOWN $200 TNT have teamed up with The Orient, Ship Inn and Paragon Hotel to bring 2 lucky readers the chance to an awesome New Years Eve package.

The lucky winners will receive VIP entry to three Circular Quay venues on NYE: The Orient, Ship Inn and Paragon Hotel.

This includes a welcome drink at each venue, canapés and giveaways, passouts and entry to the Harbour Foreshore precinct to watch the fireworks.

Party with us from 6pm til late in the heart of the Quay! What a way to start the New Year!

total priz e value

Enter at tntdownunder.com/ competitions hotelparagon.com.au shipinn.com.au orienthotel.com.au

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Knockout special James Clark interviewed heavyweight Australian boxer, Mark De Mori about his upcoming fight with heavyweight champion David Haye at the O2 Arena in London on January 16.

INTERVIEW JAMES CLARK

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Did you box as a child?

I started going to an amateur boxing club when I was about 15 years of age. Before that I was just mucking about with my brother and my dad, my dad had boxed as an amateur as a kid. I was playing Australian Football and Swimming and surfing and those sort of things and then I saw Mike Tyson and just got hooked.

Where did the inspiration come from?

Looking at Tyson v Holiefield and those kind of fights. I always wanted to be a heavyweight. I never had any interest in boxing, it was heavyweight boxing only. Growing up watching those guys, I’ve never seen anything like it and that was the spark for me. I was obsessed with it and told my dad ‘take me to a boxing club’ and eventually he did and I never looked back.

At the age of 22 you took 18 months out after knocking out five of your six opponents. What did you do for that time?

I didn’t retire or take time off, I just moved back to Perth.

I had moved away from my home town and wasn’t happy with the team I was with. Moved back to Perth and was talking with this person and that person and then fights got cancelled, I got injured and before I knew it 18 months had flew by me. It didn’t hurt me, it helped me mature a little bit.

How does it feel being number 17 heavyweight boxer in the World?

It’s good to be recognised and I’ve had a really good ranking for the last couple of years. It led me to some big offers but nothing ever happened. I kind of got ranked but was never part of the big show, or considered as one of the top main event fighters – so to be main event with David Haye at The O2 Arena that is one of the biggest stages. It’s a pretty cool feeling to have not just the ranking, but now to be on one of those shows.

Earlier this year you knocked out Marcel Zeller in the first round. Would you have liked to have had more of a fight?

It’s always good to get over ring rust and stay in the ring but for a long time I was carrying fighters longer than I needed to. I was using fights to get around the ring and you give them confidence and before you know it you never know what you might walk in to – my trainer encourages me to start finish guys as soon as I could. I work so hard in the gym, just to let a guy hang around, the chance of injury or copping a wild punch is pretty high so lately I’ve just been finishing them as soon as I can. Marcel Zeller is just a journeyman so I didn’t see any point in extending the fight longer than I needed to.

Are you looking forward to coming to the UK to fight heavyweight champion of the World David Haye?

I’ve been living in Croatia for a few years so I’ll head back

TNTINTERVIEW

with my coach to Split, Croatia, we’ve got about a month back there where we’re going to do the really serious bulk of our boxing work, sparing and the really heavy training sessions. Two weeks before the fight I’m back in London and it will be mainly fitness and technique and sharpening up. When I get back to Croatia I’ll be living and breathing boxing. Back in Croatia I have a lot of support and good guys helping me and it’s waking up focusing on the fight, watching tapes of David Haye and going to training. I want to push my body to new limits – nothing fancy about it just hard work.

I’ve boxed with three guys who have fought for the Heavyweight title but never boxed a guy who was the Heavyweight Champion. But David Haye is still considered one of the big names and that’s cooler than his record suggests and being part of such a big show. I knew David Haye was famous but when we did the press conference, the response, I realised how he does transcend boxing. My face has gone all over the world following the face off and people are calling me from everywhere. It’s a great feeling after being in relative obscurity for so many years to get some recognition. David Haye has had an amazing career and I have to thank him for giving me this opportunity even though I’m the one with the ranking. He is the big star and I’m the unknown.

Are you going to win?

I’ve got other ways to make a living in my life rather than getting beaten up for money so I wouldn’t have taken this if I didn’t think I could win. I wanted to let David Haye know that at the press conference that I’m not here to pick up some money at go home and retire. I’m here to fight and there is only one way I respond to a situation where my back is against the wall and that’s to fight harder than ever.

I’ve had some really tough fights in my career and I always produce my best when there is a little fear and nerves so I have the motivation to train hard for this fight. This is what it takes to get to the next level and David Haye is the big favourite for a reason but you can’t count out a guy like me with a big heart and huge knockout power.

Any tips for our readers that want to go pro?

Unless you’ve got some kind of Olympic background it is a very hard, long road of sacrifice and dedication. If people are focused on ‘well David Haye has made this money, Oscar De La Hoya has made this much money’ – you’ve got to realise before you make any serious money there is going to be ten years of no money, getting your hands broken, your face broken and your ribs broken and you’ll maybe make some money at the end of it. If it’s your passion though, go for it.

Just be prepared for a very hard road to the top. Professional boxing, you have to make sure you can get the best manager and promoter or else you will just be used against the other stars. Best way to do that is to have a good amateur career.

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TOP FIVE

XXXXXX

Live the resolution Where’s the ice, the endless hype and the rubbish novelty singles?

Christmas and NYE in Oz is about just one thing – the parties WORDS ALEX HARMON & HUGH RADOJEV

New Year’s Eve is kind of like planning a wedding, says she who has never planned one. Hear me out though.

You put in a lot of preparation, hoping that everything goes smoothly, that everyone around you is happy, that you look and feel good... and yet the event climaxes very quickly (I’m not talking about consummating the marriage). “You may kiss the bride”, for the New Year’s Eve reveller, is the equivalent to that momentous midnight kiss.

There’s this great song but this awful band called Casiotone for the Painfully Alone with a chorus that captures the feeling of many New Year’s kisses. “Not the way that 20

you’d imagined it. On a balcony with champagne lips/ But in a pantry against the pancake mix, you had your New Year’s kiss.” Sometimes the planning just doesn’t come off.

You’re in Australia and you want the stroke of midnight on December 31 to be special. Where all of the year’s problems can be forgotten and put down to experience, where you get a fresh slate and the chance to reinvent your life with those inspiring New Year resolutions. Well, if my eves are anything to go by, I’m in trouble.

Invariably at the countdown I am bordering on blind drunk, I’ve lost all of my friends and loved ones in a sea of people, I’m partaking in the things I

should be giving up and I can’t fathom living to the next day, let alone year.

One New Year’s Eve countdown I spent lining up for a port-a-loo, desperately trying not to piss myself as the strangers around me counted down from 10 and embraced my full bladder on number one. Luckily the pun was lost on me. That New Year should have been spent with adulation, but sadly it was urination. They say that the moment is a symbol of the year ahead and it’s true, that was a piss-weak year. Luckily I’m beginning to learn. We’ve put together a guide for you to follow so that you are guaranteed not to have a pissy night ›› and therefore not a pissy year...

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TWICE AS NICE

FIRST 2016 SUNRISE

TELL ME MORE Sometimes the big countdown can be a bit anti-climactic, so why not get a second shot at that perfect midnight pash by celebrating twice? Due to the time difference between New South Wales and Queensland, the border town of Tweed Heads is the perfect place to start your celebrations because New South Wales is one hour ahead of Queensland. Throw back some champagne, take your practice pash and belt out a rendition of “Auld Lang Syne”, and then head across either Boundary Street or Thompson Street to the Queensland town of Coolangatta for round two.

There are sure to be plenty of new friends to show you the way.

Another champagne, another pash and why not another set of resolutions?

THE DAMAGE It won’t cost you anything to cross the border.

THE DETAILS destinationtweed.com.au

TELL ME MORE Get ahead of everyone else in Australia and catch a glimpse of the first Aussie sunrise of 2016.

The common misconception is that Mt Warning near Byron Bay is the place to celebrate the first morning but the best place is actually on Lord Howe Island. Although there are no officially organised events, this laidback paradise will host a number of bonfires on the beach, along with a few drinks with new friends.

According to locals, the accepted tradition is skinny dipping at dawn to welcome the daylight. There is a limit of 400 tourists at a time on the island so get your flights early. Qantas and Qantaslink fly direct to Lord Howe Island from most major and regional airports.

THE DAMAGE Free beach fun and byo food/drink.

THE DETAILS visitnsw.com

PRODUCED BY

PLANNING A DRINK ON NEW YEAR’S EVE? Drinking is only permitted within licenced premises or at vantage points where alcohol is available for purchase. All other vantage points are alcohol-free.

See the 2015 Vantage Point Map for details.

Plan ahead at sydneynewyearseve.com

#SydNYE

Leadership Partners

Government Partner

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Photos: www.fieldday.sydney and Harbour Party NYE.

FALLS FESTIVAL TELL ME MORE Beautiful Marion Bay in Tasmania is the perfect spot for a rocking music festival.

With spectacular wilderness scenery as your backdrop, you are all set to enjoy a killer lineup, including Hot Chip, Hilltop Hoods and ultra-amazing rapper Coolio. The journey is half the fun though, so hire a camper or invest in some camping gear and make a trip of the stunning journey down to the festival. It’s a three day event but every ticket package includes New Year’s Eve. THE DAMAGE Tickets on sale now and start from $239+ for a two day pass.

THE DETAILS Visit fallsfestival.com.au

22

LUNA PARK HARBOUR PARTY

FIELD DAY

TELL ME MORE Spend your New Year’s Eve at one of the best vantage points on the harbour. Plus be entertained by the likes of DJ Will Sparks, Miami Horror, Client Liaison and other must-see artists. Party-goers looking for a good time that won’t break the budget can opt for a General Admission ticket which includes an unlimited rides pass, an amazing fireworks viewing location, access to various bar and dining areas and the incredible entertainment of the Crystal Palace and Big Top. THE DAMAGE Tix are on sale now, second release are $139.

THE DETAILS harbourparty.com

TELL ME MORE Leave the disappointments of the holidays behind. We’ve all been there: awkward work Christmas parties, family feuds at Christmas dinner, but especially the headache of the hyped up New Years Eve: getting there, trying to get home, kissing someone at midnight, party fails, fights with an ex… the list goes on.

Field Day is Sydney’s most popular New Year’s day boutique music festival.

Known for it’s super-friendly atmosphere and quality line-ups. It’s the proper way to start your year off with a refreshing bang and postpone the hangover for another day.

THE DAMAGE $138+ THE DETAILS fuzzy.com.au

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PEATS RIDGE FESTIVAL FALLS BYRON BAY TELL ME MORE Located Set on the in Glenworth Valley, New tropical oasis of the North South Peats Byron Wales, Parklands, it’sRidge a special is a fantastic location for with place to spend your NYE a fabulouspalm festival fullstars, of sequined trees, all sorts of friends. fun things. music and TheThe few best Australian days of you spend at and the event international musicians are guaranteed to be your take theinstage best, over taking someas of the well artists and theatre finestascontemporary tunes installations to keep from across the globeyou with occupied your interactivebetween arts, sustainable favourite Therefood are and initiatives,gigs. delicious markets, food places lots of hot newstalls, people for to out to and even youchill to get know. opportunites to takeina the swim Immerse yourself in the amazing river nearby, since iton many programs will noRunning doubt be scorcher. offer. allafestival Don’t forgetare to take along long, there so many ways a dress costume for tofancy get creative and involve the hugeinNew Eveof yourself the Year’s shaping Masquerade the festival orparty. if you prefer, THE DAMAGE Tixrelax. start just lay back and from $156.10 for a one day THE DAMAGE pass.

Camping start Tickets on sale passes now and at $355 for$239+ the festivals start from for a two duration day pass.

THE DETAILS Visit peatsridgefestival.com.au fuzzy.com.au

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Photo: Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW

SUMMADAYZE COCKATOO ISLAND TELL ME MORE Summerdayze moved TELL ME MOREhas Cockatoo from New Day tobest Island, oneYear’s of Sydney’s New Year’s thisityear. kept secretsEve when comes Thewatching “Colourfornia” to the Newthemed Year’s festival runs in Rymill Park, Eve fireworks.

Adelaide featuring full New Year’s Eve mayaneed afternoon and evening an early booking or you run of colourful musicout and the risk of missing on a spectacular fireworks.

The fun filled night.

Just picture lineup includes fireworks, partiesthe andlikes tons of laughter MIA, Knife Party and a while managing DJ avoid set from the long Chemical to crowds, walks Brothers helpjams. revellers home andto traffic burst intoaccommodation the new year. It Various is guaranteed to beincluding a big options are available bright night in the park, heritage holiday houses, with theview party carrying on harbour apartments, into the small hours of 2013. glamping and camping THE DAMAGE Tickets start packages and BYO options. fromDAMAGE $126.50 and the THE Send an promoter even offers “buy email for guidance onaprices now pay later” option. available.

THE DETAILS summadayze.com cockatooisland.gov. . au/stay/NYE-2015.

NYE AT LASSETERS TELL ME MORE Before the Neighbours fans get too excited, we aren’t talking about Paul Robinson’s Lassiters, but Lasseters in Alice Springs.

The hotel casino in the heart of Australia is hosting a NYE party on their front lawns. It will be a bit of a family affair until after the 9pm kiddies fi reworks are fireworks done, then all the responsible sober adults can go inside and do some responsible sober gambling until it is time to calmly cheer in the new New year.

Of course we aren’t being Year.

Of course we aren’t serious.

After the kiddies being serious.

After the fi reworks, there is there all sorts kiddies fireworks, is all of adult fun tofun beto had, sorts of adult be drink had, stalls, live music drink entertainment, stalls, entertainment, and the midnight reworks live music and the fi midnight (why should theshould kids have fireworks (why the all kids the Party goers can even havefun?). all the fun?).

Party goers grab a room hotel can even grabata the room at the to make the stumble home hotel to make the stumble much home shorter. much shorter.

THE DAMAGE The lawn event is free. Rooms at the hotel start from $110.

THE DETAILS lhc.com.au

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Photos: Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW

NEWYEARSEVE

24

PYRAMID ROCK FESTIVAL

SYDNEY HARBOUR’S ISLANDS

TELL ME MORE One of a handful of big music festivals stretching out over the New Year break, Pyramid is arguably the one with the most character. Along with fairy penguins and the Moto GP event, Pyramid Rock Festival is one of Phillip Island’s biggest annual events. The 2012/13 lineup is as big as it has ever been with the likes of 360, The Cribs, Tame Impala and PNAU strutting their musical muscles over three days of maddness.

THE DAMAGE A three day pass is $314 which includes access to the camp sites and a booking fee. The three day pass allows earlier arrival and a better chance of a good spot.

THE DETAILS thepyramidrockfestival.com

TELL ME MORE Not sure you fancy joining the masses in Circular Quay from the early hours for a long day waiting for the fireworks? Well, if you’re willing to pay for the privilege you can get a ticket to several different islands in the harbour. This means simply turning up for the ferry in the evening, with as much food and booze as you can carry, and then sitting back with your mates and enough space to watch the display on a much less crowded island.

THE DAMAGE Tickets for the likes of Clark, Goat and Shark Island go on sale at 9.30am, 28 November. They’re generally about $175.

THE DETAILS environment.nsw.gov.au

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Voted the best backpackers in NZ 2014 We find work for you, come live the dream at the Mount!

www.pacificcoastlodge.co.nz TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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Nova 96.9 & Luna Park Sydney present

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TRAVEL TOP 5 | TOP 10 | LISTINGS NEW YEARS EVE IN SYDNEY I’m sure other cities in the world and indeed around Australia think they put on a good show but I’m telling you that until you see a New Year in from one of the dozens of vantage points dotted around Sydney harbour, you really haven’t done it properly...just saying.

TOP FIVE /42

TOP END TOP 10 /44

GREAT LAKE TAUPO /66

With some 26,000 miles of coast line to choose from, picking just the Top 5 beaches from Australia was pretty bloody tough, so we polled it round the office to bring you our favourites.

The Top 10 Destinations as voted for in Golden Backpacks should take you a while to get through...enjoy this handy readymade bucket list!

If you a looking for an escape from it all then jump over the ditch for a pitstop at Great Lake Taupo, it’s beauty is almost beyond compare TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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TRAVELBITES

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Anyone for a spot of flash packing?

CANTERBURY BULLDOGS PLAYER SWAPS FOOTBALL FOR FLASHPACKING Former Canterbury Bulldogs and Parramatta Eels player, Jarrod McCracken, has swapped football for the hospitality market with the opening of a luxury hostel in Townsville, in northern Queensland.

Known as flashpacking, it’s becoming the most recent accommodation craze since glamping.

Jarrod and wife Michelle travelled the world sleeping like backpackers to find out what was needed.

“We stayed in one in London which was the pits,” Mrs McCracken told news. com.au. “The mattress was lumpy with old buttons like grandma’s bed and the toilets were backed up and overflowing.

And that was $160 a night.”

But things weren’t much better in Australia, she said. “Australia needs to up the ante. The majority of current 28

hostels were good 10-15 years ago but the bar’s been raised with travellers wanting more bang for their buck.”

We are keen to hear from any of our readers with some experience of flashpacking.

ONEIL ROBERTSON USES SCHWARZENEGGER VIDEOS TO GET FIRED UP Australian Neil Robertson claimed his second UK Championship title in three years, taking his earnings to £300,000 in the last three weeks.

The 33-year-old is hungry for more success and uses motivational videos by Schwarzenegger to fire himself up.

“His six success rules are trust yourself, break the rules but not the law, don’t be afraid to fail don’t listen to the critics, work your butt off and give something back,” said Robertson.

“I’m really into sport and motivational videos and speeches and I’ve just

convinced myself it’s not enough and I’ve got to win more, more, more.

“When I hang up my cue and I can relax and reflect on my career I can be proud and content with what I’ve achieved - but at the moment, I’m not.”

Robertson will play Hong Kong’s Marco Fu in the first round at Alexandra Palace next month.

TOURISM TAX ABOUT TO HIT NEW ZEALAND It has been suggested that a new tax on visitors entering and leaving New Zealand is set to discourage tourists from coming to the country.

The tax that will pay for the costs of border control will have a negative impact on economic growth, according to the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research.

“Right now tourism is booming, bringing in new export dollars and a chunky boost to GST revenues,” said NZIER principal economist Kirdan Lees.

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A job for the penis

“A border charge would simply discourage much of the behaviour we want to encourage – tourists to visit and spend money in New Zealand.

“Expect 34,000 fewer tourists each year because of the border charge.

Funding the costs of border controls from general taxation would have less impact on economic growth than “punishing the tourism sector just when it is getting going”, he said.

The tax comes into effect on January 1, and will cost NZ$21.57 for a flight passenger and NZ$26.22 for a for cruise passenger.

Figures released by the Government suggest that the tax won’t have any negative effect on visitors to New Zealand. They are predicting that International passenger volumes are to increase to 13.3 million by 20182019.

TRANSLATE AUSTRALIAN ROAD SIGNS INTO CHINESE The federal tourism minister, Richard Colbeck, has recommended translating road signs into Mandarin in a bid to encourage more Chinese visitors.

With close to a million visitors from China coming to Australia, injecting $7.7bn into the economy annually and growing, we must do whatever we can to ensure they enjoy their experience and want to return,” he said.

About 40% of Chinese tourists are choosing to self-drive so signage, roads, Wi-Fi and basic amenities are important to encourage them to explore our vast country safely.”

Colbeck plans to present the suggestion officially at the first tourism ministers’ meeting next year.

Are you planning to return to the UK for 2016? The team at Puppetry of the Penis are on the hunt for a new cast to perform the show at theatres across the UK and Europe next year. Applicants should be fit, have a complete lack of shame, and a great sense of humour.

This is a perfect job for someone travelling from abroad or on a working holiday. All shows are on the weekends so no need to give up your day job. Training will be provided and the money is great.

Applicants must provide their own equipment (you’ll need a penis).

Some stage experience is preferred, but not essential. Just don’t be shy.

Just in case you’re getting the wrong idea it’s a non-sexual adult show.

Interested parties should forward a bio and photo’s to set up private casting. Contact simon@ puppetryofthepenis.com TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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HOTSHOTS

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WINNER

WINNER FIORDLAND FURY: Alex Petryna, 29, Wales ALEX SAYS: “One doesn’t have to go far in NZ for great shots. After a 45 minute walk from the car park I got lucky as the sun was setting over Fiordland.”

WE SAY: “We normally try and keep our Aussie and NZ images fairly separate but, once in a while, a photograph comes along that we simply cannot ignore. Alex’s shot is one such picture. It’s so pretty! We love the play of light amongst the clouds along the top of the mountain peak. We know that New Zealand can be a beautiful country, but sometimes one forgets.”

RUNNER-UP LIZARD LOUNGE: Luke Spencer, 28, Britain LUKE SAYS: “This was taken from Wild Horse Mountain Lookout. You can see the Glasshouse Mountains in the background.”

WE SAY: “Captain Cook named these the Glasshouse Mountains because they reminded him of the glass furnaces that dotted the landscape of his home county of Yorkshire, and from this vantage you can kind of see what he was getting at.

The beautiful lush green of the hillocks and countryside around also contrasts beautiful with the fluffy white clouds and crystal blue sky. Good work Luke!”

RUNNER-UP 30

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 may also be placed on TNT’s Facebook page.

For T&Cs, see tntdownunder.com.

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y & a l p k r wo

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Vivonne Bay Lodge Kangaroo Island

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Vivonne Bay Lodge is in a great central location on the island, close to all the main attractions.

Cook your own BBQ by the large deck and enjoy the great indoor and outdoor facilities provided.

• Twin, family and dormitory style rooms • Shared bathroom facilities • Well equipped lounge/dining and recreation room • Large undercover deck, bar and BBQ • Complimentary use of bikes and kayaks with 2 night stay • Close to Little Sahara for sand boarding, Raptor Domain, Seal Bay, Hanson Bay Wildllfe Sanctuary and Flinders Chase National Park

Call 13 13 01 or visit sealink.com.au TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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TOPFIVE

AUSTRALIAN BEACHES

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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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AUSTRALIAN EXTREMEBEACHES SPORTS

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TOPFIVE

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RAINBOW BEACH

CABLE BEACH

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. rainbowbeachinfo.com.au

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.

Immerse yourself in the town’s romantic pearling history and multicultural society. australia.com

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BONDI BEACH

WINEGLASS BAY

Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach has something for everyone: surf and sand, glitzy bars and cafes, a farmers market and street stalls, scenic running tracks and plenty of backpacker accommodation.

Located just 8km from the CBD, Bondi is one of the city’s busiest beaches. It’s also the setting for more postcards and travel snaps than perhaps any other destination in Australia. You’ll recognise it as soon as you see it.

Experience Bondi’s carefree, sun-drenched lifestyle with a walk along the main promenade and up to Bondi’s northern headland. sydney.com

Along with Cradle Mountain, this spellbinding corner of Freycinet National Park is Tasmania’s major postcard pinup. And yet the pictures still can’t do it justice.

A mainstay on lists naming the best beach in Australia, sometimes the planet, Wineglass Bay really does have it all. Well, it could be a few degrees warmer at times…

There’s a bit of a trek to get there, which means you get some gawp-tastic views of it on the way, plus the coach trip crowds don’t bother. Once there, it’s suddenly huge, and there are dolphins. And there’s even a campsite at the far end. parks.tas.gov.au

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Way out West...

It was my first day volunteering at Monkey Mia, a world-famous hang-out for the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, tiger sharks and strange sea-mermaids called dugongs

I stared at my new co-worker. Swimming coolly in the water, Nicky’s long body was svelte and dark. She stared back at me through a sleepy grey lid and her Julia Roberts lips were stretched into a disconcerting half smile…Okay, I’m going to stop here before my effort at personification starts sounding like a porno!

Nicky is a 35-year-old dolphin, a mother of three surviving calves and her fin looks like three jagged peaks on a mountain.

I am a scummy backpacker. Our friendship surpassed oceans of differences, although we probably won’t end up Facebooking when I go home.

It was my first day volunteering at Monkey Mia, a worldfamous hang-out for the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, tiger sharks and strange sea-mermaids called dugongs (although they look more like a sea-cow than a mermaid) and I was getting acquainted with the natives.

Morning Glory Thanks to my trusty Australian guidebook and a conveniently located payphone in Coral Bay, I had been able to secure a much-coveted position in MonkeyMia’s Dolphin Research Facility, smack in the middle of World Heritage-listed Shark Bay. 34

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Needless to say, I was pretty excited to be working with dolphins in one of Australia’s best kept secrets – 320 days of sunshine a year, free dolphin watching and interaction every day, awesome beaches and hardly anybody to share it all with.

Monkey Mia’s location halfway between Perth and Broome, at the tip of an isolated peninsula, means it can feel like you are travelling to the ends of the Earth to get there, but hey, nobody said that finding paradise was easy.

From the minute I arrived, I was thrown right into the shallow end of Dolphin Beach’s crystal blue shores. Dolphins have visited Monkey Mia for over four decades, missing only four days in the last five years, so on a typical day it’s possible to watch schools of female dolphins with their calves, squadrons of saggy-jawed pelicans drinking from the sprinklers, and the odd turtle just bobbing about – all from the comfort of the shell-decorated strand.

But bleary-eyed backpackers beware: The early morning feed, anytime from 7.30am onwards, is always the biggest crowd puller for dolphins as well as humans. Depending on how hungry they are, the dolphin’s three allocated feeds could be over by 9am. ›› TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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Get Glory But Monkey Mia and its world-famous dolphins are worth the effort; volunteering there ranks as one of my top activities in Australia. Have you ever felt the rough skin of a dolphin skim past your legs? Or seen a five-hour-old calf cuddle next to its mother, its fin still soft and curved from birth? I have!

While mums and dads with excited toddlers and nervous tweens ankle-splashed eagerly at the water’s edge, I was in the thick of things – seaweed, pebbles, fish and dolphins galore.

Puck, a 34-year-old grandmother, recognisable by her ‘wave in the wind’ shaped fin, gave birth to Samu on my fifth day of volunteering. It was truly inspiring to witness Puck’s trust in humans as she happily paraded her brand new baby to the tourists.

Her children and grandchildren swam nearby, offering their protection or congratulations, maybe both. Their actions were so human and so relatable that I immediately wanted to befriend these intelligent creatures.

After a week of interaction I imagined that we had formed a bond – not so much by my daily preparation of yellow-tailed fish for their meals – but because of an intense childish wish to make friends with ‘Flipper’.

Going cold pelican For those who are not dolphin lovers or who have a phobia of water creeping above their ankles, Monkey Mia and Shark Bay offer countless other distractions: hot tubs and an icy swimming pool for the masochistic, camel rides for the horny, cruises and sail-boats for the rich and poor, Aboriginal storytelling tours for the culturally-inclined, shark sightings, dugong searches, 4WD 36

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“

Anybody who ignores the Ningaloo is making a big mistake – it’s an unmissable stop

”

WEST COAST&&KIMBERLEY KIMBERLEY WEST COAST Perth •• Monkey MonkeyMia Mia •• Exmouth Exmouth •• Karijini Karijini •• Broome Broome Perth

trips, snorkelling, romantic walks across spiky shelled shores and wrestling matches against hungry local emus – the resort really is a world of wonder.

Traveller tips: if you are a twit-head or, despite being on the adventure of a lifetime, you just can’t forget Facebook, then prepare to go cold pelican. In Monkey Mia, a ‘wireless’ still means a radio, and even in the metropolis of nearby Denham (an old pearling town with a population of about 1,000), internet and phone access is available only through expensive, old fashioned machines and pay phones (remember those?).

Considering Denham is Australia’s most westerly town, food is also super pricey. I’m not sure they’ve even heard of Woollies or Coles. Mia advice: stock up on tins and Twitter in Perth or Broome and, while in Monkey Mia, embrace the pearls of the West.

2016/17  1300 73 88 7070 www.westernxposure.com.au ( 1300  www.kimberleywild.com.au ( 130072 7288 8870

Heading North Following on from my adventures in Monkey Mia I head north up the coast to Ningaloo Reef and almost immediately find myself back in the water.

Cursing myself for being last off the boat, I plunge into the water and try to get my bearings, momentarily blinded by the tangle of snorkels, fins and bubbles ahead of me. Within seconds, the bubbles clear and I freeze – I’m face to face with the biggest fish in the world.

A whale shark is just metres away and heading straight at me, its huge yawning mouth gaping open. Unsure what to do, I pick the most stupid option and stay frozen to the spot, stunned, staring awestruck into the metre-wide mouth.

It’s as though the giant shark is sucking me towards it, like a tractor beam from some sci-fi mothership. Coming to my senses, I kick out and dart away, as it edges within just a few metres of me. However, it seems I had no need to worry. Just as I hurry out of its path, the eight-metre shark itself has the same idea, banking effortlessly to the left and throwing me a dismissive look, showing off its beautiful spots like a supermodel shimmying down a catwalk.

Reef encounters I’m swimming off the coast of Western Australia, on the Ningaloo Reef, otherwise known as one of the best places in the world to see whale sharks in their natural habitat.

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Photos: Tourism Western Australia

I’d never heard of Ningaloo before coming Down Under. I’d never heard of whale sharks either for that matter. But ever since a drunken encounter last year with an irrepressibly excited traveller, still boggle-eyed from the experience of snorkelling with the underwater gentle giants, it’s been top of my to-do list. Which is why I made sure I was on the Ningaloo Reef the next time whale shark season came around.

Most people concentrate on exploring its big eastern brother the Great Barrier Reef, but anybody who ignores the Ningaloo is making a big mistake. Indeed, it’s an unmissable stop on any west coast trip.

Stretching for about 280km about halfway up WA’s coast, the reef is at times just a stone’s throw from the beach. Plus, unlike the sometimes chilly Pacific waters off the Aussie east coast, the western reef is kept snug by some of the warmest waters on Earth – the Indian Ocean.

But the fact that wimps don’t get cold in the water isn’t what makes Ningaloo so amazing – it’s what you’re sharing the water with. From April until July every year, after the mass spawning of coral, large numbers of whale sharks, which can grow up to 12 metres and weigh up to 14 tonnes, move into the area to feed.

Model behaviour While it is possible to see these majestic masters of the marine 38

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world in other places, like Central America, hardly anywhere else is as accessible, reliable or eco-friendly.

Besides, whale sharks are just one of the area’s draw cards.

Massive manta rays, weighing up to two tonnes, can also be spotted year round, although most commonly between May and October, while various species of whales and turtles, plus about 500 other types of fish, can also be seen at different times of the year.

I stop briefly in Coral Bay, a strong contender for Australia’s best beach. A peaceful lagoon nestling against the reef, Coral Bay has got such a dreamlike quality that it’s hard not to entertain fantasies of giving everything up for a life in a shack on the sand, doing nothing but snorkelling and sunbathing every day. But I’m on a different mission on this trip and so postpone my new life, at least until after my time in Exmouth, the main gateway to the Ningaloo Reef – kind of like the Cairns of the west, only smaller and quieter.

Finally stepping foot on the boat, I’m terrified. What if, after travelling thousands of kilometres and waiting all this time, I don’t actually see anything?

I needn’t have worried. The whales are so big and often swim so near to the surface that the boats actually use spotter planes flying overhead to track down the giants. And, while there is never any guarantee that you’ll see one, we don’t have to wait long before a sighting crackles over the radio from our eyes in the sky.

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After an excited dash across the water, we’re in, and my first whale shark emerges from the bubbles.

Over the next few hours we see another six sharks, as well as a bonus pair of playful minke whales. Sometimes we get a glimpse of the whale shark’s shimmering patterns while still on the boat, other times it’s not until we’re under the water that we spot them gliding out of the darkness.

Some are bigger than others, but they’re all huge, completely dwarfing me despite being harmless.

Some twist and turn, clearly enjoying playing with us, while others give us one bemused look and put on a surprising turn of speed to disappear into the deep.

Each shark, each personality, each experience is different. But every time is incredible.

Shark addict The fish are like a drug. Each time one scarpers, the cravings come back and I need one more hit and so desperately swim after the mysterious sparkling speckles. When the inevitable happens and the day eventually comes to an end, I’m still buzzing on my whale shark high. So with no idea where my next hit will come from, I have just one choice left – I head back to Coral Bay.

››

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TRAVELWEEKENDER

Coasting through This is the Capricorn Coast in 48 hours WORDS RORY PLATT

DAY 1: Queensland is a state of astonishing natural beauty, both under the water and above. Most who have visited will have already dropped in on the Great Barrier Reef, and the majority will have done so from Cairns. But breaking away from the crowds is always wise, and you should know that the reef is just as amazing (if not more so) the further south you go. Take a spin down or up to the Capricorn Coast, a gorgeous stretch of coastline roughly starting near Rockhampton down towards Fraser Island.

8:30: You can start your trip in either Rockhampton or Bundaberg by plane - it makes no difference. If you go for Bundaberg you can use a mirror to read this review and do it in reverse, as I’m not writing two different ones.

Touchdown in Rocky-Rockhampton (not the official name), grab your vehicle of choice and head in the direction of Yeppoon, and stop in Emu Park, for your first nights accommodation. You’ll be staying at Emus Beach Resort (emusbeachresort.com), a laid back sort of place where you can drink in the unspoiled beaches or take tequila body shots off the bar. It’s really up to you.

9:15: As laid back as life is here, you really want to grab the Capricorn Coast by the horns and wrestle it to the ground.

You can start by taking a little trip out to Keppel Bay Islands, an inspiring location from which you can enjoy the serenity of white sandy beaches or dive into the water and explore the reef. Freedom Fast Cats (freedomfastcats.com) will get you out there, get you fed and get you wet. Bargain!

13:00: So the snorkelling trip will probably have suckered up most of your day, but imagine if you could be in two places at once… Still, for those with a molecular teleporter, or a twin you’ll find an opportunity to get up close and

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cuddly with the infamous, gigantic reptile that dwells in the estuaries and almost anywhere wet at the Koorana Crocodile Farm (koorana.com.au) they'll let you hold a croc, play with the hatchling and even (unlike most zoos) eat their star attractions in their restaurant. Yes, croc is on the menu here!

16:00: The day is winding down and you’ve successfully done your thing. It feels about time to kick back and enjoy the view. Close to Emu Park is a lovely monument called The Singing Ship which as the name suggests literally sings. Well, sort of. When the wind blows the ship makes lovely music for you to enjoy while you’re sitting and taking in the view.

19:00: It’s evening time, and that means your evening is going one of two ways: cook a nice meal, have a casual brew by the pool or… tequila body shots off the bar? Bear in mind that the latter is likely to get messy. There’s no shame in that of course. If you end up sleeping in the hallway covered with nothing but a towel however, then you should be ashamed.

DAY 2: 9:00: Golly. What an evening. It’s time to get moving and you’re either very happy or very unhappy about that. If you’re not happy, put on some dark shades and tell everyone you’ve got a headache and didn’t sleep well last night. They’ll never know the difference. It’s not all that far to Yeppoon, so please don’t make this difficult. Along the arduous 30-minute drive, I would recommend stopping at Capricorn Coast National Park where you can enjoy mangroves, rainforest or even a picnic on Bluff Point.

Delightful!

11:00: Here we are. You’ve made it to your destination, so: bravo, I guess. Your next night’s sleep is at Coral Inn Resort

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Get up close to the crocs at Koorana

& Flashpackers (flashpackers.net.au). As the name suggests, it’s a bit flash. Hang by the pool, get settled in and then get moving to the next activity.

12:00: Back in the car – I know you’re disappointed – and drive on out to Capricorn Caves (capricorncaves.com. au). Before we go on, how good is it that a cave system has its own website? Anyway... A stunning array of stalagmites and stalactites protrude from the ceilings and floors of this aboveground cave system. There’s even a little church that’s been built inside where weddings and even opera are often held. Keep your eye out for bats and rock wallabies on your way in and out of the caves.

16:30: It’s getting on in the day, so undoubtedly you’ll be wanting dinner sometime soon. Well, perhaps you should stop talking about dinner and go out and catch it? Hmm? Causeway Lake just south of Yeppoon is the perfect spot to dip your line, get some advice from the locals and maybe land the big one. If you’re an animal lover and the thought of hooking some innocent bass by the lips doesn’t get you going, or if you suck at fishing, then you should consider purchasing your meal.

19:00: Hypothetically, if you have caught yourself a feed then Coral Inn Resort & Flashpackers (flashpackers.net. au) will no doubt have some kind of BBQ grill thing for you to sizzle your fish up on. If not, well, as I suggested earlier; buy something! It's almost unimportant now, there's drinks to be had and the time for having them is running out.

20:30: Beers can be had at Yeppon's Railway Hotel where you'll also meet some of the locals – word to the wise, sky blue is not a good colour to wear around here. Enjoy a schooie, you've earned it!

Not a bad spot for fish & chips

Spot of caving, anyone?

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Photos: Tourism NT, Tourism WA, Tourism NSW, Tourism Tasmania, Kangaroo Island Adventure Tours, Destination Great Lake Taupo

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Australia has great cities, but it’s the huge expanse of wild, massively varied and largely empty natural bits that really makes it one of the world’s most exciting countries. It’s a place that demands you get out and explore.

Get yourself into the Red Centre of this amazing country and find yourself in a wildness like you’ve never seen before.

It’s almost impossible to list here all the amazing gorges and National Parks and highlights so we have just picked our two absolute favourites here. Please, whatever you do, not miss them otherwise you will have missed the heart of this great country.

And then there’s the salties. Measuring up to five metres long, the region’s many saltwater crocs are the biggest reptiles on Earth. Also, considering the Bininj Mungguy people have called the place home for about 50,000 years, it’s no surprise Kakadu is one of the top places Down Under to learn about Aboriginal culture and see some ancient rock art. Your best bet is to get yourself on a multiday camping trek, preferably with Aboriginal guides. gagudju-dreaming.com

KAKADU, NORTHERN TERRITORY

This massive sandstone formation is one of the two major features of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park (the other is Kata Tjuta, a smaller group of rock formations). It’s lucky this rock is so impressive as the journey to get there is epic; it’s effectively in the middle of nowhere, and is surrounded by thousands of miles of the outback. The nearest town is Alice Springs, a mere 280 miles away. You can hire a van and decide your own itinerary, but we recommend that you join a tour. It’s probably best not to try to climb it; more than 40 people have died trying to complete the climb, and the native aboriginal people, the Anangu, struggle when accidents happen as they feel personally responsible. therocktour.com.au

Home to humongous waterfalls, whopping termite mounds and giant reptiles, Kakadu is the daddy of Aussie national parks. The people who hand out World Heritage listings certainly think so – it’s one of only about 25 places on the planet to have been given the special status for both its natural beauty and cultural importance. Indeed, to call Kakadu awe-inspiring would be to sell it short.

Found about 240km east of Darwin, the first thing you’ll probably notice in the expanse of jungle, floodplains and rocky ridges are the termite mounds the size of a house.

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ULURU, NORTHERN TERRITORY

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Jetstar fly from Sydney 10:30am arriving at Uluru (Ayers Rock Airport) at 1:40pm FROM $179.00 The Rock Tour picks up at Uluru (Ayers Rock Airport) DAILY at 12:00pm and 1:40pm.

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CRADLE MOUNTAIN, TASMANIA

GREAT LAKE TAUPO, NZ

The Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park covers 126,025ha of mountains and alpine moorlands, at the centre of which is the craggy Cradle Mountain itself.

The dominating Lord Of The Rings-style peak can be climbed in a day, but if you’ve the time, it also forms the highlight of the five to seven-day Overland Track, widely considered Australia’s best walk. Indeed, if you’re after hiking and scenery (and often weather) that New Zealand would be proud of, this is the place to come. You’re also almost certain to see wombats in the wild, and there’s always an outside chance of a glimpse of a Tasmanian devil or a platypus. parks.tas.gov.au

Snowcapped mountains, crystal clear waters, raging rapids, thermal hot springs and lush greenery are just some of the incredible natural attributes on offer here.

If you like beautiful scenery, adventure and the great outdoors then this is the place, whether you’re into adrenaline adventures or something more laid back. This fantastic region has everything from scenic cruises to skydiving, mineral hot pools to cultural experience of the Maori rock carvings, great food to white water rafting.

Whatever your taste you will find the perfect activity in nature’s ultimate playground. Don’t be surprised if you end up extending your stay. greatlaketaupo.com

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THE WHITSUNDAYS

KANGAROO ISLAND

Home to arguably Australia’s most stunning beach, the Whitsundays are a spectacular chain of 74 islands off Queensland party town Airlie Beach.

Like Australia’s version of the Greek Islands, spending a few days sailing and diving around these dots of palm-fringed jungle is a classic backpacker experience, with main attraction Whitehaven Beach being one of the highlights of the east coast.

Airlie Beach itself is also a lot of fun.

Often described as a “zoo without fences”, this South Australian destination within easy reach of Adelaide is the best place for meeting Australia’s weird and wonderful animals in the wild.

Kangaroo Island Adventure Tours offers two-day tours for small groups, hosted by entertaining, local guides who know everything there is to know about Kangaroo Island. Visit kiadventuretours.com.au for info.

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BLUE MOUNTAINS, NEW SOUTH WALES A favourite escape for Sydneysiders, just 90 minutes’ drive from the city, the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains are great for spectacular scenery, adventure sports, exploring caves and quirky artistic towns.

The classic postcard view is the Three Sisters, found right by the region’s main town Katoomba, an easy train ride from Sydney, . bluemts.gov.au

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Come meet the locals!

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The Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its abundant native bird and animal wildlife. Enjoy the best of Australian native animals such as Koalas, Kangaroos, Tammar Wallabies, Possums and Echidnas on our Sanctuary. Our Koala Walk is open every day for Koala viewing and is recognised as the best place on Kangaroo Island to see a sustainable population of Koalas in the wild. We have a volunteer program that we run for international young travellers.

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• Departing Adelaide with pic set-down from selected hosk-up & • Return coach & ferry transf tels • Visit Rob’s Shearing & She ers ep Emu Ridge Eucalyptus DistilleDogs, Seal Bay, sandboarding at Litt ry, Sahara, Vivonne Bay, Hanso le Koala Sanctuary, Flinders Chn Bay ase National Park, Remarkable Roc ks & Admirals Arch • Accommodation at Vivonn e Bay Lodge with FREE use of kayaks , bikes & WiFi • Meals include 1 breakfast, 2 lunches & a BBQ dinner

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MY EXPERIENCE

SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE & SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

12 APOSTLES MARINE NP, GREAT OCEAN ROAD

Within a stone’s throw of each other, you can see these two in one day.

Completed in 1932 and able to hold eight lanes of traffic, Sydney Harbour Bridge is an awe-inspiring sight. Want to climb it? You can scale the southern half of the bridge in safety with BridgeClimb.

The 40-year-old Sydney Opera House is a stunner and holds thousands of events and shows every year. Bridgeclimb.com /

Head to the Great Ocean Road for a glimpse of the 12 Apostles – limestone towers that used to be connected to the mainland’s cliffs, but now rise imposingly out of the Southern Ocean.

To see the remaining eight Apostles being mauled by the sea on a windy day will make you feel very small indeed, and don’t miss catching a sunrise or sunset; the rocks glow yellow and orange under a full sun. visitgreatoceanroad.org.au

sydneyoperahouse.com

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FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand’s West Coast Glaciers, and one of the most outstanding sights to be found in New Zealand.

Franz Josef Glacier Guides gives you the opportunity to experience the most spectacular glacier environment available. Take a hiking tour and experience the ice like you’ve never done before. Tours are designed for all abilities. franzjosefglacier.com 46

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GREAT BARRIER REEF, QUEENSLAND What can we say about the world’s most famous Unesco World Heritage Site that hasn’t already been said?

This gorgeous coral reef is home to thousands of species and stretches for 1,400 miles along the Queensland coast. If you’re into scuba diving, make sure you squeeze in as many dives as possible. Failing that, a cruise around the reef in a glass-bottomed boat is just as mesmerising. gbrmpa.gov.au

It’s come a long way since its birth in Scotland in 1983.

Sydney will host part of the HSBC World Rugby Seven Series when the carnival returns to Australia on the weekend 6 - 7 February 2016.

The host city follows in the footsteps of Brisbane, Adelaide and the Gold Coast as fans from across the globe descend on the Harbour city.

A total of 16 teams will be playing at the Sydney 7s – Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, South Africa, England, Scotland, Portugal, USA, Canada, Russia, Kenya, Wales, France and Argentina.

Another team from another country from the Pacific Islands will be invited to join the rugby tournament.

Expect 45 games across two awesome filled days.

The Sevens will be hosted at the 45,000 capacity Allainz Stadium and various packages and prices are available.

Surprisingly none of them will break the bank.

Fiji are currently the World Series champions in the men’s game and leading the way for the women’s series are New Zealand.

Let’s see if all that is about to change.

Later on in 2016 Sevens will be making history at the Rio Olympics. The first time at the Olympics since 1924. www.sydney7s.com.au

Photos: Franz Josef Glacier and Martin Seras Lima

RUGBY 7’S

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Without counting Tasmania, Australia has 8,221 islands, so you can bet your least favourite relative there’s one with your name on it (especially if your name is Fraser). After lots of The Jetty, Lord Howe Island squabbling, in no particular order, here are our favourite 10...

Offshore mission Islands. They inspire fantasies of sun-soaked romps with celebrities and cocktails. And we get lucky because Oz has no shortage of them WORDS JAMES BESANVALLE

Australia is the largest island in the world (we disqualified Greenland on a technicality) and fringed across its extensive coastline are more than 8,200 smaller islands. With so many to choose from, there’s bound to be one you’ll love, so we’ve put together a list of Australia’s top 10 island getaways.

From Rottnest in the west to Fraser in the east, and the Whitsundays in the north to Bruny in the South, each one offering its own unique island escape for any type of coast loving tourist.

Ever had that dream where you’re sitting under a tropical tree, drinking from a coconut through a straw with Jessica Alba or Justin Timberlake? Well, you were most likely fantasising about Queensland. The state has the most amount of islands in Australia, so you’ll be spoiled for choice, whatever your tropical-celebrity-romp dream may be.

If exploring an adventure island is more your thing, 48

there are plenty of islands with almost untouched natural landscapes. Your footsteps may well be the first ever, as local wildlife look at you with confusion. The rainforests and national parks on these islands offer rugged cliffs, breathtaking bays and greenery that matches the colour of envy your friends and family will be wearing once they see your photos.

Many of the islands feature animals that are unique to Australia too. This uniqueness attracts a popular tourist interest and is what makes Australian islands stand out from the rest.

With island names such as Daydream, Spectacle, Solitary, Magnetic, King and Swan, there’s an island for everyone.

Whether you’re tightening your walking shoes for an adventure hike or taking them off for a walk along the beach, make sure you take plenty of photos because you’ll need them as daydreaming material for when you return home.

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Photo: Don Fuchs; Destination NSW

FRASER ISLAND In a nutshell: Dingoes, lakes and lush rainforests thriving on the world’s largest sand island.

Tell me more: Fraser Island is extraordinary – it has a World Heritage listing to prove it. The incomparable isle is the world’s largest sand island, with subtropical rainforests stubbornly thriving in a seemingly infertile environment.

There are no tarmac roads, so most people see the island on multi-day 4WD tours (though you can dodge the crowds, stay longer, and do it cheaper by walking around it if you’re feeling hardy).

Fraser is also home to more than 40 freshwater dune lakes – over half the world’s known total. Indeed TNT’s favourite spot is Lake McKenzie, a massive freshwater lake where crystal clear water meets sands so white you’re tempted to sprinkle them on your dinner/snort them up.

Where? Off the Queensland coast, from Hervey Bay, Rainbow Beach or River Heads.

KANGAROO ISLAND In a nutshell: So much wildlife it should be renamed something better.

Tell me more: Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third largest island (after Melville Island and Tassie). It has a population of 4,500 people and 25,000 koalas. So really it should have been renamed Koala Island, or better still, You’ve Never Seen So Much Wildlife In One Place Except Possibly At The Zoo (But Even Then The Cool Animals Are Always Asleep) Island. Works so much better.

As well as the abundant wildlife – if you don’t see koalas, roos, wallabies, seals, sea lions, the odd snake and plenty more you’d better get them glasses checked – there are the what-it-says-on-the-tin Remarkable Rocks, some epic sand dunes (ideal for sandboarding) and a greedy collection of gorgeous beaches.

Where? Off the Fleurieu Peninsula, about one hour 45 mins drive from Adelaide, South Australia.

HINCHINBROOK ISLAND In a nutshell: As close to “unspoilt” as it gets.

Tell me more: That’s the inevitable problem with pretty places. People find them and want to tell everyone else about them. Everyone else comes, takes a look

and builds souvenir shops, car parks and petrol stations on it. Suddenly it’s not very pretty anymore. Hinchinbrook Island National Park is a glorious exception.

Think granite mountains, sweeping beaches, boulder-strewn bays, craggy headlands, waterfalls plunging into inviting pools, lush rainforest, cute creeks and plenty of wildlife, especially wallabies, er, crocodiles, and hardly anyone around. Unsurprisingly, this barely disturbed wilderness is popular – mainly in the form of hikers walking the famous Thorsborne Trail.

Where? Off the coast of Cardwell, Queensland.

ROTTNEST ISLAND In a nutshell: “Rotto” is Santa’s Grotto (er, if Santa gave out beautiful beaches).

Tell me more: With motorised traffic all but non-existent (private vehicles are banned), the island is best experienced by bike and it goes a little bit like this: Cycle for a bit. Find an irresistible beach.

Snorkel. Laze about. Feel happy. Cycle for a bit. Find another irresistible beach.

Snorkel. Laze about. Feel happy. Cycle for a bit. Find an even more irresistible beach.

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Snorkel. Laze about. Feel happy.

As Rotto’s surrounding reefs are littered with shipwrecks it’s popular with divers, snorkellers, surfers and fishing types.

Plus, due to the exclusion of feral pests, this is one of the few areas in the world where the cute quokka can be found.

Where? About 18km off Fremantle, near Perth, Western Australia.

FITZROY ISLAND

Kangaroo Island

In a nutshell: A day trip to paradise.

Tell me more: If you’re short on time (and funds) Fitzroy Island is a must-do for visitors to Cairns.

Bring your camera and leave your fishing rod behind because the spectacular Fitzroy Island is one of the most unspoiled islands of the Great Barrier Reef and is World Heritage protected. The place is choc-a-block full of activities including hiking and bush trails through woodlands, tropical rainforest or coral beaches; diving and snorkeling to see brightly-coloured fringing reef, green sea turtles, clown fish, dolphins and whales; kayaking; glass bottom boat trips, or the chance to kick back and unwind at Foxy’s bar with a refreshing beer or a cocktail or two. If you can’t bear to leave, accommodation ranges from camping grounds and hostels, to luxury resorts. So you don’t have to break your budget.

Where? It’s only 29 kilometres south-east of Cairns, QLD and the ferry takes 45 minutes from the mainland.

BRUNY ISLAND

Bruny Island

Rottnest Island

In a nutshell: The sort of place you hide away to write a novel.

Tell me more: It’s just an hour from Hobart, yet on Bruny you can feel like you’re at the end of the world – miles from civilisation. Windswept, pleasingly wild and undeniably beautiful, Bruny is essentially two islands connected by a long isthmus called The Neck.

Cross The Neck and you’re in a world of cliffs, rainforest, endless, white, lonely beaches, some good bushwalking trails and penguins and fur seals. We like it there. In fact, we’re currently saving up to buy a cottage here (to write that first novel).

Where? Around an hour south from Hobart. Ferry from Kettering, Tasmania.

MAGNETIC ISLAND In a nutshell: Party or park your arse.

Tell me more: It was a close call between Maggie and the less developed Great Keppel and both offer similar: party prospects married with park your arse and “chillax” opportunities.

There’s superlative scenery, beaches, wildlife and activities, such as diving and snorkelling. Maggie has great wildlife experiences too, with koalas living in the wild and cute little rock wallabies.

Where? A ferry ride from Townsville, Queensland.

THE WHITSUNDAYS In a nutshell: A bit like heaven really.

Tell me more: Angels serve you free beer and... Nah. But the scenery is out of this world. We’ve cheated a little bit here – we simply can’t chose one island above the rest, so we’re including all 74.

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F O R BAC K PAC K E R S

Great Barrier Reef Adventures

Truly one of the great wonders of the natural world and a “must-see” for any visitor to the region. Our pontoons at the outer reef include an underwater viewing chamber, snorkelling, reef experts, diving and much more. Includes an all you can eat buffet lunch departs Airlie Beach fromz $169pp*

Whitehaven Beach Camira Sailing Adventure

Swim at one of the best beaches in the world, sailing on one of the world’s fastest commercial catamarans. BBQ lunch and all refreshments included. An all inclusive day departs Airlie Beach from $150pp*

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Fraser Island

Magnetic Island

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Most isles are sandy with tropical rainforest and several have accommodation options, ranging from five-star resorts to basic camp grounds (34 in all). It’s all shallow, gently swirling turquoise waters and talcum powder beaches, with the famous Whitheaven Beach (on Whitsunday Island) the must-have photo.

As if all that wasn’t good enough, the islands are surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef, so the snorkelling and diving is pretty much as good as it gets. Staying on an island or two is fun, but sailing in amongst them is arguably better.

If you meet someone who toured the east coast and didn’t go to the Whitsundays, you’ll meet someone who looks marginally suicidal.

Where? From Airlie Beach, in between Mackay and Townsville, Queensland.

MARIA ISLAND In a nutshell: Maria, you should have seen her.

Tell me more: Who loves islands that are entirely national parks? We do, that’s who. Off Tassie’s gorgeous and surprisingly sunny east coast, Maria Island National Park is uninhabited (aside from one ranger).

There’s eerie ruins, sweeping bays, rugged cliffs, mountains and oodles of wildlife. There’s a hiking trail and campsites, but the island is arguably best experienced on a mountain bike, charging through the woods and along cliff-tops. TNT’s fave spot here is the painted cliffs, with bizarre colours and patterns, almost like a butterfly print.

Where? Get the ferry from Triabunna, Tassie.

MORETON ISLAND

Stradbroke Island

In a nutshell: Fraser Island without the crowds.

Tell me more: Another idyllic isle made entirely of sand. The island is 98 per cent national park and a popular destination for four wheel driving, camping and whale watching. It’s more famous though for its dolphins and shipwrecks, which you can feed and snorkel amongst respectively. It is often compared to Fraser Island. The island’s biggest wonder is that Moreton’s beautiful beaches are left pretty much undisturbed year-round.

Where? 60km north-east of Brisbane.

BIG UPS TO:

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Photos: TNT Images, Cool Dingo Tours, Tourism Australia

Picking just 10 islands was much more difficult than we thought. There are so many more we haven’t got room for, with Queensland especially spoilt for choice.

Also worthy of a mention are the quiet but very pretty Dunk Island (off Mission Beach) and Stradbroke (near Brissie).

Further up on the reef is Heron, with its turtles, low-key Lady Elliot with its great diving and Lady Musgrave Island, with its enclosed lagoon big enough to sail into.

We’ve never been, but we hear on good authority that Tasmania’s King Island is worth a visit, while New South Wales’ best kept secret Lord Howe Island is suposedly spectacular if you’ve got a bit of cash to spare.

For something more cultural, the Northern Territory’s Tiwi Islands are a fascinating place to sample Aboriginal culture, while way, way, off the coast of Western Australia, the stunning Cocos and Christmas Islands look like they’ve been nicked form the Caribbean. n TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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Big Hostel 212 Elizabeth St. CBD. 02 9281 6030 bighostel.com

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1800 236 213 dluxbudgethotel.com.au Kangaroo Bak Pak 665 South Dowling St. Surry Hills.

02 9318 0902 Avalon Beach Hostel 59 Avalon Pde, Avalon Beach.

02 9918 9709, avalonbeach.com.au Bondi Shores Level 1. 283 Bondi Road, Bondi bondishores.com.au Bondi YHA 63 Fletcher Street.

Tamarama. yha.com.au Lamrock Lodge 19 Lamrock Ave. Bondi.

02 9130 5063, lamrocklodge.com

The Metro metrotheatre.com.au

BASE WINNER BEST ACCOMMODATION NSW GOLDEN BACKBACKS 2015 Voted No.1 backpacker hostels by travellers world over for fun, comfort, security & a great travelling experience. stayatbase.com.au Glebe Point YHA 262-264 Glebe Point Road.

Glebe. yha.com.au

Sydney Aquarium Darling Harbour. sydneyaquarium.com.au

Boardrider Backpacker Rear 63, The Corso, Manly.

02 9977 6077 boardrider.com.au

Sydney Wildlife World Darling Harbour. sydneywildlifeworld.com.au

The Bunkhouse 35 Pine St, Manly.

1800 657 122, bunkhouse.com.au

Taronga Zoo Mosman. taronga.org.au

Manly Backpackers 24-28 Raglan St. Manly.

02 9977 3411 manlybackpackers.com.au

Waves Surf School wavessurfschool.com.au

Cammeray Gardens 66 Palmer St, North Sydney.

02 9954 9371 sydneyboardinghouse.com

Skydive Central Coast Warnervale. skydivethecentralcoast.com.au

BYRON BAY Backpackers Holiday Village 116 Jonson St

Nomads Byron Bay Lawson Lane.

Byron Bay YHA 7 Carlyle St. Skydive the Beach Byron Bay Kingsford Smith Park, Ballina 1800 302 005 skydivethebeachbyronbay.com

COFFS HARB Coffs Harbour YHA 51 Collingwood St. 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

SYDNEY DO

Maritime Museum Darling Harbour. anmm.gov.au My Sydney Detour Unique city tours. mysydneydetour.com

Aegean Coogee Lodge 40 Coogee Bay Rd. Coogee.

04 0817 6634, aegeancoogee.com.au

Powerhouse Museum Darling Harbour. powerhousemuseum.com.au

Surfside Backpackers 186 Arden Street. Coogee.

02 9315 7888, surfsidebackpackers.com.au

The Entrance Backpackers 2/56 The Entrance Road, The Entrance, 2261 02 4334 5005 theentrancebackpackers.com

The Arts Factory 1 Skinners Shoot Rd.

Manly Surf School Manly Beach. 02 9977 6977, manlysurfschool.com

Oceanworld Manly West Esplanade. oceanworld.com.au

Coogee Beachside 178 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee.

02 9315 8511, sydneybeachside.com.au

CENTRAL COAST Newcastle Beach YHA 30 Pacific St, Newcastle. yha.com.au

Byron Bay Accom 02 6680 8666, byronbayaccom.net

Wake Up! 509 Pitt St, CBD.

Lochner’s Guesthouse 27 Paul St. Bondi.

02 9389 5421

Coogee Beach House 171 Arden St. Coogee.

02 9665 1162, coogeebeachhouse.com

BLUE MTNS Blue Mountains YHA 207 Katoomba St, Katoomba. yha.com.au

Backpackers Inn 29 Shirley St 1800 817 696 backpackersinnbyronbay.com.au

Photos: Spaceships

Eva’s Backpackers 6-8 Orwell Street Kings Cross 02 9358 2185, evasbackpackers.com.au

The Enmore enmoretheatre.com.au

1800 350 388, byronbaybackpackers.com.au

Skydive the Beach Wollongong. skydivethebeach.com Sydney Olympic Park Darling Harbour. sopa.nsw.gov.au Sydney Tower and Skywalk 100 Market St, CBD. sydneytowereye.com.au Sydney Harbour Bridge The Rocks. bridgeclimb.com

SPACESHIPS WINNER BEST CAMPERVAN GOLDEN BACKBACKS 2015

Spaceships are custom designed, award winning vehicles that are like a good car to drive with more useful features than a campervan. Our campervans are available for hire from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Auckland and Christchurch. A Spaceships Camper is versatile, compact, fun and fuel efficient and backed up by their award winning and friendly customer service team. Travel in style! spaceshipsrentals.com.au

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

MONTACUTE BOUTIQUE BUNKHOUSE Set in an elegant residential area, this trendy, multi-award winning hostel is an 8-minute walk from Salamanca Market. It was a winner with our readers and scooped a Golden Backpack in our 2015 awards for Best Accommodation in Tasmania.

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

montacute.com.au

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

LAUNCESTON DO Cataract Gorge launcestoncataractgorge.com.au

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. Freycinet National Park Brewery, Wineglass Bay camping. 03 6256 7000 wineglassbay.com

STRAHAN, Strahan YHA 43 Harvey St.

STRAHAN DO Wild Rivers Jet Jet Boat Cruises.

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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

UNDER DOWN UNDER WINNER BEST TOUR/ACTIVITY TASMANIA GOLDEN BACKBACKS 2015 Under Down Under specialises in small group tours throughout Tasmania. With the largest range of tours; we provide visitors with a hassle free, and eco friendly way to experience the state on a budget. underdownunder.com.au

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MELBOURNE STAY All Nations Nomads 2 Spencer St. Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda.

Central Melbourne Accommodation 21 Bromham Place, Richmond.

03 9427 9826, centralaccommodation.net 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. Nomads Melbourne 198 A’beckett St. 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 College Lawn Hotel 36 Greville St, Prahran collegelawnhotel.com.au

Hotel Discovery 167 Franklin St hoteldiscovery.com.au

Melbourne International Backpackers 450 Elizabeth St mibp.com.au Melbourne Metro YHA 78 Howard St yha.com.au Melbourne Central YHA 562 Flinders St, Melbourne 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 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 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 169 Fitzroy St, St Kilda ritzbackpackers.com St Kilda Beach House 109 Barkly St, St Kilda stkildabeachhouse.com.au

MELBOURNE DO Australian Centre for the Moving Image Federation Square.

03 8663 2200, acmi.net.au

Claremont Guesthouse 189 Toorak Rd, South Yarra hotelclaremont.com

Melbourne Aquarium Cnr of Flinders St & King St. 03 9923 5999, melbourneaquarium.com.au

City Centre Budget Hotel 22-30 Little Collins St citycentrebudgethotel.com

Discovery Melbourne 167 Franklin St. discoverymelbourne.com

Elephant Backpackers 250 Flinders St elephantbackpacker.com.au

Melbourne Cricket Ground Brunton Av. 03 9657 8888 mcg.org.au

Elizabeth Hostel 490 Elizabeth St elizabethhostel.com.au King St Backpackers 160 King Street kingstreetbackpackers.com.au

CHECK IN

Lords Lodge Backpackers 204 Punt Rd lordslodge.com.au

UNITED BACKPACKERS

WINNER BEST ACCOMMODATION VICTORIA GOLDEN BACKBACKS 2015

250 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Come and find out why travellers keep rating and reviewing United Backpackers as the best hostel in Melbourne and even Australia! It’s no secret we have the best location in town right opposite the iconic Flinders Street Station in the absolute heart of Melbourne, but we also offer you brand new facilities, heaps of sweet spaces to chill or play including our cool basement bar and yes, rest assured we also have free Wi-Fi in our common areas.

Melbourne unitedbackpackers.com.au 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 Melbourne 1300 798 843 skydivethebeachmelbourne.com Tourism Victoria Backpacking ideas. backpackmelbourne.com Wildlife Tours Australia Specialising in Victorian tours +61 3 9314 2225 wildlifetours.com.au

GREAT OCEAN RD Anglesea Backpackers 40 Noble St, Anglesea.

03 5263 2664, angleseabackpackers.com.au Apollo Bay Eco YHA 5 Pascoe St. yha.com.au Great Ocean Road Backpackers 10 Erskine Av, Lorne.

03 5289 1070, greatoceanroadcottages.com Port Campbell Hostel 18 Tregea St, Port Campbell.

03 5598 6305, portcampbellhostel.com.au Surfside Backpackers Cnr Great Ocean Rd & Gambier St, Apollo Bay. 1800 357 263, surfsidebackpacker.com

MORNINGTON

Melbourne Museum 11 Nicholson St, Carlton.

13 11 02 melbourne.museum.vic.gov.au

Bayplay Lodge 46 Canterbury Jetty Rd, Blairgowrie.

03 5988 0188, bayplay.com.au

National Gallery of Victoria

Sorrento Foreshore Reserve

Nepean Hwy. 1800 850 600, mornpen.vic.gov.au

beachpark.com.au BIG4 Inverloch Holiday Park 2 Cuttriss St, Inverloch.

03 5674 1447, inverlochholidaypark.com.au

Sorrento YHA 3 Miranda St, Sorrento.

Tortoise Head Lodge French Island.

03 5980 1234, tortoisehead.net

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

03 5956 7227, phillipislandcpk.com.au

DANDENONG Emerald Backpackers 03 5968 4086

Cowes Caravan Park 164 Church St, Cowes.

03 5952 2211, cowescaravan.com.au

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

Koala Park Resort 1825 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes.

03 5952 2176, koalaparkresort.com.au

Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Ave, Mildura.

03 5022 7922, milduracitybackpackers.com.au Oasis Backpackers 230 Deakin Av, Mildura.

04 0734 4251, milduraoasisbackpackers.com.au

GIPPSLAND Prom Coast YHA Backpackers 0427 875 735 Cambrai Hostel Maffra 117 Johnson St, Maffra.

1800 101 113 maffra.net.au/hostel

PHILLIP ISLAND Amaroo Park YHA 97 Church St, Cowes.

Anchor Belle Holiday Park 272 Church St, Cowes.

03 5952 2258, anchorbelle.com.au Avenue Apartments 204 Thompson Avenue, Cowes.

03 5952 6718, visitphillipisland.com Beach Park Tourist Caravan Park 2 McKenzie Rd, Cowes.

03 5952 22113,

The Island Accommodation 10-12 Phillip Island Tourist Road. 03 5956 6123 theislandaccommodation.com. au San Remo Holiday Park 4 Mary Grove, San Remo.

03 5678 5024 visitphillipisland.com

GRAMPIANS Grampians YHA Eco Hostel Cnr Grampians & Buckler Rds, Halls Gap. Tim’s Place 44 Grampians Road, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4288, timsplace.com.au

MILDURA Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Avenue milduracitybackpackers.com.au

STRATHMERTON Riviera Backpackers YHA 669 Esplanade

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Photos: Raging Thunder Cairns

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

RAGING THUNDER WINNER BEST TOUR/ACTIVITY QLD GOLDEN BACKBACKS 2015 Raft the mighty Tully River, regarded as the best rafting river across Australia and New Zealand. Go Wild with the first company to raft the Tully back in 1985 .. Raging Thunder! ragingthunder.com.au

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

07 3367 1157, bananabenders.com Brisbane 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 Balmoral House 33 Amelia St, Fortitude Valley vipbackpackers.com Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St The Elephant Hotel 230 Wickham St

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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.

1300 254 627, storybridgeadventureclimb. com.au

XXXX Brewery Tours & Ale House Brewery tours.

Cnr Black & Paten St, Milton.

07 3361 7597, xxxxalehouse.com. au

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 Coolangatta YHA Pl, 230 Coolangatta Rd, Bilinga.

Budds in Surfers 6 Pine Ave, Budds Beach, Surfers Paradise 07 5538 9661, buddsinsurfers.com.au Gold Coast International BP 28 Hamilton Ave, Surfers.

1800 816 300, goldcoastbackpackers.com.au Islander Backpackers Resort 6 Beach Rd, Surfers.

1800 074 393, islander.com.au Sleeping Inn Surfers 26 Peninsular Dr, Surfers Paradise.

07 5592 4455, 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.

Trekkers Backpackers 22 White St, Southport.

07 5591 5616, trekkersbackpackers.com.au

Zorb 07 5547 6300

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

1800 020 120 mooloolababackpackers.com

RAINBOW BEACH Dingos Backpacker Adventure Resort 20 Spectrum St. 1800 111126, dingosresort.com

Nomads Islander Resort 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd,

Pippies Beach House 22 Spectrum St. 1800 425 356, pippiesbeachhouse.com

Surf & Sun Backpackers 3323 Surfers Paradise Blvd surfnsun-goldcoast.com

Skydive Rainbow Beach 0418 218 358, skydiverainbowbeach.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

HERVEY BAY Aussie Woolshed 181 Torquay Rd 07 4124 0677 woolshedbackpackers.com.au Next at Hervey Bay 10 Bideford St. 1800 102 989, nextbackpackers.com Palace Backpackers 184 Torquay, 1800 063 168, palaceadventures.com.au

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FRASER ISLAND

AIRLIE BEACH

Eurong Beach Resort 07 4120 1600, eurong.com.au

airliebeach.com 259 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 677 119

Palace Adventures 184 Torquay St, Hervey Bay, 1800 063 168 palaceadventures.com.au

Airlie Beach YHA 394 Shute Harbour Rd.

Barefoot Lodge Long Island barefootlodge.com.au Colonial Village YHA 820 Boat Harbour Drive, Urangan, Hervey Bay 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

Backpackers by the Bay 12 Hermitage Dr. 1800 646 994, backpackersbythebay.com Base Airlie Beach Resort 336 Shute Harbour Rd Magnums Whitsunday Village Resort 366 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 624 634 magnums.com.au

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN!

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

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

and fast food joints to help with yourBase Gilligan's hangover.

Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd. The Friendly Hostel 13:00: Continuing north of Port Douglas you’ll land in 182 Torquay Rd, Hervey Bay Bungalow Bay Backpackers Mossmanfriendlyhostel.com.au Gorge (mossmangorge.com.au).

At Daintree Horseshow Bay. NationalWoolshed Park the gorge is a must-see.1800 Once you’ve trekked Backpackers 285 577, 181path Torquayyou’ll Road be able to give your bungalowbay.com.au along the feet a rest and woolshedbackpackers.com.au Hotel Arcadia admire the crystal clear Mossman River that cascades over 7 Marine Parade, Arcadia Bay. granite boulders.

07 4778 5177, BUNDABERG hotelaracadia.com.au 15:00: Heading back to the car and continuing north Federal Backpackers 221 Bourbong St. 07 4153 3711 Pleasure Divers you’ll find yourself at Cape Tribulation. Check out Ferntree federalbackpackers.com.au 07 4778 5788 Rainforest Lodge (ferntreerainforestlodge.com.au) Northside Backpackers which has classic tables.

They 12 Queen St.huts with a bar and wooden MISSION BEACH 07 4154 1166 meals night and day. After eating it’s serve scrumptious Absolute Backpackers Wongaling Bundaberg time to enjoy theBondstore delights of the Cape28 with a Croc cruise Beach Road.

Distillery tours.

07 4068 8317,wildlife cruise (daintreerivercruises.com.au) A one hour 07 4131 2999 absolutebackpackers.com.au bundabergrum.com.au that lets you spot wild animals in their natural habitat. Be Beach Shack DingoBlue Backpackers warned: don’t walk too close to any mangroves, you might 86 Porters Promenade 11 Burrum St, Bundaberg QLD 4670 missionbeachshack.com get an unwanted 07 4152 0100 snap.

19:00: Withdingobluebackpackers.com all that excitement it’s time to head back Scotty’s Beach House 167 Reid Rd. 07 4068 8676, Mid As Pointthe Backpackers towards Grand Cairns. evening settles, head straight into the scottysbeachhouse.com.au 87-89 Bourbong St, Bundaberg 4670 city centre where 07 4151 0003 there is wide array of restaurants for you Jackaroo Hostel Mission Beach grandhotelbundy.com.au to pick from along the main strip.

Frizelle Rd, Bingil Bay jackaroohostel.com 19:00: And it wouldn't be true Cairns experience without TOWN OF 1770 Mission Retreat dancing the night away at The Woolshed Beach (thewoolshed.

49 Porters Promenade 1770 Backpackers com.au).6 Captain With Cook themed nights on everymissionbeachretreat.com.au night, try your luck Dr. 1800T-shirt 121 770, competitions or see how you fare in their in the wet the1770backpackers.com CAIRNS STAY Mexican drinking games. Either way you'll end your Cairns 1770 Undersea Adventures Bohemia Central Cairns trip on a1300 high.

553 889, 100 Sheridan St. 1800 558 589, 1770underseaadventures.com.au

. . .

E R E H Y L L A IN F E ’R YOU

bhacentral.com.au

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

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

www.prodivecairns.com SHOP: Cnr Shields & Grafton Sts, Cairns FREECALL: 1800 353 213 PHONE: +617 4031 5255 RES: info@prodivecairns.com TNTDOWNUNDER.COM53 59 tntdownunder.com

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QLDLISTINGS Bohemia Resort Cairns 231 McLeod St. 1800 155 353 bohemiaresort.com.au

Lot 5, Buchanan Creek Rd, Cow Bay. 07 4098 9166, crocodyluscapetrib.com

Calypso Backpackers 5 Digger St. 1800 815 628, calypsobackpackers.com.au

PK’s Jungle Village Cnr Avalon & Cape Trib Rd. 1800 232 333,

pksjunglevillage.com.au

JJ’s Backpackers Hostel 11 Charles St. 07 4051 7642, jjsbackpackers.com

INNISFAIL

NJoy Backpackers Hostel Harbour 141 Sheridan St. 1800 807 055, njoy.net.au

Innisfail Budget Backpackers Worker’s Hostel 125 Edith St. 07 4061 78337

Nomads Beach House 239 Sheridan St.

Walkabout Motel & ackpackers 07 4061 2311 walkaboutbackpackers.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

CAPE TRIB Crocodylus Village

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 Noosa Backpackers

follow us on 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 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

Beach Front Towers 4 Aerodrome Rd, Marochydore beachfronttowers.com.au

INNISFAIL Codge Lodge 63 Rankin St codgelodge.com

Cotton Tree Beachouse 15 the Esplanade cottontreebackpackers.com

Crown Hostel 25 Ernest St 07 4061 2266

The Duporth 6 Wharf St, Maroochydore theduporth.com.au

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 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 Childers Eco-Lodge Off the Princess Highway childersecolodge.com.au

SUNSHINE COAST 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

@tnt_downunder

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

MACKAY Gecko’s Rest 34 Sydney St geckosrest.com.au

MAGNETIC IS Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd Bungalow Bay Koala Village 40 Horseshoe Bay Rd bungalowbay.com.au

WHITSUNDAYS Wings Whitsunday Adventures 1300 859 853 wings.com.au Whitsundays Sailing Adventures Whitsundays sailing 07 4940 2007 WhitsundaysSailingAdventures. com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

CAIRNS HOLIDAY PARK WINNER GOLDEN BACKBACKS 2015 BEST HOLIDAY PARK Cairns Holiday Park is located in the centre of Cairns, the only place where two World Heritage listed areas meet, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. As the closest caravan park to the Cairns city centre, the park offers excellent accommodation options and a range of excellent facilities including swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, kiosk, air conditioned TV room, tropical fruit and herb garden, camp kitchen and extensive tour desk. cairnsholidaypark.com.au

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NTLISTINGS DARWIN STAY

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KATHERINE STAY

CHECK IN

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

BIG4 Katherine Holiday Park 20 Shadforth Road.

1800 501 984, big4.com.au

Darwin YHA 97 Mitchell St.

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

ALICE LODGE WINNER GOLDEN BACKBACKS 2015 BEST ACCOMMODATION NT

Melaleuca on Mitchell 52 Mitchell St. 1300 723 437, momdarwin.com

4 Mueller St, Alice Springs.

This quirky hostel offers superb access to the Red Centre and an outback full of wonder, red earth and giant monoliths just waiting to be explored.

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

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

Alice Springs

alicelodge.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

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. Haven Resort 3 Larapinta Drive.

1800 794 663, alicehaven.com.au

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Toddy’s Backpackers 41 Gap Rd. ONLINE Rock & Dorm SPECIALS FREECALL 1800 027027 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 74 Todd St “3day Uluru only $350” FREECALL 1800 246345 therocktour.com.au

FLY JETSTAR TO ULURU AIRPORT FROM $99 BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY! 62

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PERTH STAY Billabong Backpackers Resort 381 Beaufort St. 08 9328 7720, www.billabongresort.com.au

Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St coolibahlodge.com.au

CHECK IN

One World Backpackers 162 Aberdeen St, Northbridge.

1800 188 100, oneworldbackpackers.com.au Perth City YHA 300 Wellington St. The Old Swan Barracks 2-8 Francis St. 08 9428 0000, theoldswanbarracks.com

Wickham Retreat Backpackers 25-27 Wickham St, East Perth 08 9325 6398

Grand Central Hotel Backpackers 379 Wellington St 08 9421 1123

Emperor’s Crown 85 Stirling St, Northbridge.

1800 991 553, emperorscrown.com.au

Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottlesloe.

08 9384 5111, oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au

Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, undergroundbackpackers. com.au

Easy Perth Backpacker 4 Francis Street, Northbridge easyperthbackpackers.com.au

Britannia on William 253 William St, Northbridge.

08 9227 6000, perthbritannia.com

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

Northbridge shiralee.com.au

YMCA Jewell House 180 Goderich St ymcajewellhouse.com.au

Hay Street Backpackers 266-268 Hay St haystbackpackers.com

BILLABONG BACKPACKERS RESORT WINNER GOLDEN BACKBACKS 2015 BEST ACCOMMODATION WA

Hotel Bambu Backpackers 75 - 77 Aberdeen St, Northbridge bambu.net.au

Experience the best backpacker and traveller hostel in Perth. Billabong Backpackers Resort Hostel caters for anyone travelling to Perth. Whether you’re a backpacker working your way around Australia or just someone visiting this great city.

Perth billabongresort.com.au

Mountway Holiday Apartments 36 Mount St mountwayapartments.com.au

Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, Northbridge.

08 9228 3755, underground backpackers.com.au

Backpack City and Surf 41-43 Money St backpacker.com.au

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

Cheviot Lodge 30 Bulwer St cheviotlodge.com

Beatty Lodge 235 Vincent St beattylodge.com.au

Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St coolibahlodge.com.au

PERTH DO

Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottesloe oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au Perth Beach YHA 256 West Coast Hwy, Scarbrough Planet Inn Backpackers 496 Newcastle St planetinn.com.au The Shiralee Hostel 107 Brisbane St,

Aquarium of Western Australia 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys.

08 9447 7500, aqwa.com.au Art Gallery of Western Australia Perth Cultural Centre/Roe St, Perth.

08 9492 6600, artgallery.wa.gov.au Aviation Heritage Museum Bull Creek Drive, Air Force Memorial Estate, Perth.

08 9311 4470, raafawa.org.au

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WALISTINGS

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

@tnt_downunder

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 Perth Zoo 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 Perth Concert Hall 5 St George’s Terr., Perth. 08 9231 9900, perthconcerthall.com.au St Mary’s Cathedral 17 Victoria Square,, Perth. 08 9223 1350, perthcatholic.org.au

ADVENTURE TOURS AUSTRALIA This award winning travel company specialises in small group Tours. The Company has been bringing adventure seekers together for over 20 years.

They know Australia and New Zealand like the back of their hands and recruit the best guides, considered the best in the business.

adventuretours.com.au

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St George’s Cathedral 38 St George’s Terrace, Perth. 08 9325 5766, perthcathedral.org The Perth Mint 310 Hay Street,

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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 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 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 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

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

08 9336 9200, backpackersinnfreo.com.au

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

ROTTNEST ISL Rottnest Island YHA Kingstown Barracks.

Rottnest Express 1 Emma Place North Fremantle 1300 Go Rotto rottnestexpress.com.au

MARGARET RIVER Margaret River Lodge YHA 220 Railway Tce. Harmony Forest 248 Sebbes Rd. 08 9757 7055, harmonyforest.com.au Surfpoint 12 Riedle Drive Prevally 08 9757 1777 surfpoint.com.au

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

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

NINGALOO REEF Blue Reef Backpackers 3 Truscott Crescent, Exmouth 1800 621 101, aspenparks.com.au Ningaloo Club Coral Bay 08 9948 5100, ningalooclub.com Excape Backpackers YHA Murat Rd, Exmouth.

BROOME STAY Cable Beach Backpackers 12 Sanctuary Road.

1800 655 011, cablebeachbackpackers.com Kimberley Club 62 Fredrick St 08 9192 3233, kimberleyklub.com

CORAL BAY Ningaloo Club Robinson St ningalooclub.com

ESPERANCE

The Shipwreck Galleries Cliff St, 08 9212 3700, museum.wa.gov.au

Blue Waters Lodge YHA 299 Goldfields Rd,

Fremantle Arts Centre 1 Finnerty Street.

08 9432 9555,

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

EXMOUTH

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SALISTINGS Vivonne Bay Lodge Kangaroo Island

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ADELAIDE STAY

FRE E

WiFi

Vivonne Bay Lodge is in a great central location on the island, close to all the main attractions.

Cook your own BBQ by the large deck and enjoy the great indoor and outdoor facilities provided.

• Twin, family and dormitory style rooms • Shared bathroom facilities • Well equipped lounge/dining and recreation room • Large undercover deck, bar and BBQ • Complimentary use of bikes and kayaks with 2 night stay • Close to Little Sahara for sand boarding, Raptor Domain, Seal Bay, Hanson Bay Wildllfe Sanctuary and Flinders Chase National Park

Adelaide Backpackers Inn 112 Carrington St. 1800 24 77 25, abpi.com.au Adelaide Central YHA 135 Waymouth St. Adelaide Travellers Inn 220 Hutt St. 08 8224 0753, adelaidebackpackers.com.au

My Place 257 Waymouth St. 1800 221 529, adelaidehostel.com.au Shakespeare Hostel 123 Waymouth St. 1800 556 889, shakeys.com.au

ADELAIDE DO

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 The two day all-inclusive Kangaroo Island Wilderness Explorer Tour covers what is considered to be all the essential experiences on Kangaroo Island. kiadventuretours.com.au

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KANGAROO IS

Vivonne Bay Lodge Knoefel Drive, Vivonne Bay 13 13 01 vivonnebaylodge.com.au

Adelaide Zoo Frome Rd. 08 8267 3255, zoossa.com.au

WINNER BEST TOUR/ACTIVITY SA GOLDEN BACKBACKS 2015

Riba’s Underground 1811 William Creek Rd. 08 8672 5614, camp-underground.com.au

Blue Galah Backpackers Lvl 1, 52-62, King William St. 08) 8231 9295, bluegalah.com.au

Adelaide Oval Home to the Donald Bradman collection.

War Memorial Drive.

08 8300 3800 adelaideoval.com.au

KANGAROO ISLAND ADVENTURE TOURS

Radeka Down Under 1 Oliver St. 1800 633 891, radekadownunder.com.au

Kangaroo Island YHA 33 Middle Terrace, Penneshaw.

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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

COOBER PEDY Opal Cave Coober Pedy Hutchinson St. 08 8672 5028, opalcavecooberpedy.com.

Backpack Oz 144 Wakefield St. 1800 633 307, backpackoz.com.au

Glenelg Beach Hostel 5-7 Moseley St. Glenelg.

1800 359 181, glenelgbeachhostel.com.au

Call 13 13 01 or visit sealink.com.au

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Barossa Backpackers 9 Basedow Road, Tanunda.

08 8563 0198, barossa backpackers.com.au

RIVERLAND Berri Backpackers Sturt Highway, Berri.

08 8582 3144, berribackpackers.com.au Harvest Trail Lodge Loxton. 08 8584 5646, harvesttrail.com.au Nomads on Murray Sturt Highway, Kingston on Murray.

Riverland Backpackers Labour Hire Services 08 8583 0211

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

EYRE PENINSULA Coodlie Park Farmstay Flinders Highway, Port Kenny.

08 8687 0411 coodliepark.com Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience Sea lion and dolphin swims.

08 8626 5017 bairdbay.com Calypso Star Charters Great white shark cage diving.

08 8682 3939, sharkcagediving.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 rodneyfox.com.au

FLINDERS RANGES Angorichina Tourist Village 08 8648 4842, angorichinavillage.com.au Wilpena Pound Resort Wilpena Rd. 08 8648 0004, wilpenapound.com.au

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NZ TRAVEL

Photo: Tamaki Maori Village

NZ TRIP | NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND LISTINGS

TAMAKI MAORI VILLAGE Winners in our recent Golden Backpack Awards 2015 of the Best Cultural Experience category for New Zealand, worth checking out if you are over the ditch in NZ.

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Taupo the world Get a bird’s eye view of New Zealand’s largest lake before sailing on it, biking around it, and catching fresh trout for your dinner. Ladies and gents, the glorious Lake Taupo WORDS FRANCESCA BAKER

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NZTRIP

They call it the Taupo Trap. Not that New Zealand’s largest lake actually sucks you in like some Australasian Bermuda Triangle (although covering an area of 616 sq km, it is capable of subsuming Singapore); but because, once you visit, you probably won’t want to leave. Indeed, many don’t, as I found out on my brief but wonderful stay in and around this North Island gem.

Like most things in New Zealand, it’s worth starting with the geology and geography. As part of the volatile chain of volcanoes that lines the Pacific Ring where the Pacific plate slides under its Indo-Australian neighbour, the area has had its fair share of earth moving and shaking, and the lake was originally a volcanic crater. The last major eruption

happened 1,800 years ago (making one 1,100 years overdue) and was so violent that it was recorded in Roman and Chinese history – both rather far away.

This has resulted in a dramatic location, offering far more than just a pool of water. The 170km of shoreline surrounds a glistening blue-green lake, fed by the Tongariro and Tauranga-Taupo rivers and 32 wandering tributaries, along with the Waikati River Outlet. It’s surrounded by a stunning backdrop of mountains looming over, including the ladyshaped Mount Tauhara and the vast Kaimanawa range, which shimmer in the waking light and glow in the setting sun. Along with access to activities all around as well as a bright ›› TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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Photos: Destination Great Lake Taupo, Big Sky Parasail and Skydive Taupo.

NZTRIP

town centre, Taupo has become a vibrant hub for people, places, holidays and happiness.

Most people in Taupo don’t start on the lake, but above it. Hurtling towards it even. Taupo is the skydive capital of New Zealand, and the bright pink planes of Skydive Taupo can be seen every day over the lake. Taupo is both one of the prettiest (and cheapest) places to leap out of a plane. I jump with Chris, who has done more than 8,000 jumps – the first when he was nine! – but despite the fact that he clearly knows what he is doing, free falling from 12,000 or 15,000 feet is still a little unnerving. It is unnatural – gravity pulling you through the air while you plummet towards the ground, having leapt from a 200km/h plane – but glorious. A thrill and rush during the initial jump, and then a graceful glide once the parachute opens. Watching the world unfold beneath you is a rush that seizes you with fear and excitement. skydivetaupo.co.nz At a lower height, yet with just as beautiful views, try parasailing with Big Sky Parasail. With the sunshine on your shoulders and a breeze in your 70

hair, music pumping and the ridge of the mountains all around, parasailing is one of the nicest and most relaxing ways you can see the lake, while still doing something ‘different’. The multicoloured swirls unfold behind you while you sit on the back of the boat, the winch starts, and suddenly you are off, legs waving as you gaze around.

From here the translucent turquoise water is amazing; patches of shadow from the clouds only highlighting its colour. It looks as though you can touch the bottom – you can certainly dabble your toes as you come back to the boat after your 20-minute sail, just ask. bigskyparasail.co.nz For those preferring to remain on dry land, Taupo is a relatively flat spot in which to amble on a bicycle. Hire one from Rainbow Lodge and take the easy Great Lake Trail down from the harbour to Two Mile, Three Mile, Four Mile (spot a pattern?), all the way to Wharewaka Point lookout. On the way back, paddle in the hot water lapping the beaches – you’ll spot the right places from the steam rising from the shoreline – but be careful, as it can reach over 65°C. Along here numerous rental spots for paddleboards, canoes,

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Spring... that's the time when

everyone's waiting around for summer to arrive, right?

Not here! Great Lake Taupo is brimming with awesome

activities, things to do, friendly locals and a MASSIVE

Ooh yeah!

lake - all year round!

Ç FREE WIFI

In town and on the lakefront

$

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Photos: Destination Great Lake Taupo, Sail Fearless & Blackcurrant Backpackers, Richard Staines, White Striker Charters and Huka Falls Jet

and windsurfs dot the banks, and prices start from only a few bucks for half an hour. Bringing down a picnic and lazing an afternoon away on the lake is an ideal way to spend time.

Taupo is also famed for something else other than adventure. Very cold water and abundant food sources mean that it is the home of clean and tasty trout. The only two native species – bully and kaoro – are uninteresting for sport and eating, so in the early 1890s rainbow and brown trout were introduced and since then the sport has thrived. It is illegal to buy and sell trout in New Zealand – the only way to eat it is to catch it yourself. Get out with Richard on White Striker, the boat he has owned for more than 20 years. Reaching up to 180ft deep, there’s plenty up for grabs making it an ideal location to fish for beginners.

‘Chardonnay fishing’, he calls it. When he takes me out he treats me to a few glasses of Sauvignon Blanc in the sunshine. Although at only 12lb my catch doesn’t rival the largest brown trout ever caught in 1904 at 52lb, but I am the most popular person in the hostel that night. troutcatching.com 72

On the lake you might spot Dave and his beautiful sailing boat, Fearless. Over two-and-a-half hours he will take you to Acacia Bay, past the ‘sleeping lady’ silhouette forged by the range of Mt Tauhara, out to contemporary Maori carvings. Designed and etched by Matahi WhakatakaBrightwell in the 1970s, the 10m-high carvings depict Ngatoroirangi, the legendary Maori navigator who first led his people to the area, and smaller Celtic-inspired carvings depicting wind and a mermaid. When the wind is in the sails and the sun is setting, with a beer or wine in the hand, it is a pretty magical evening. And at only $39 (for life!) anyone can come back again, as long as they bring a bottle or biscuits. Bargain! sailfearless.co.nz You can’t come to this part of the world without doing a bit of tramping. It’s easy to get from Taupo to the Tongariro Crossing, but I recommend Adventure HQ, mainly because Paul, the owner and driver, gives me lots of Dairy Milk to appease my mood when lost walkers hold us up. Notoriously one of the world’s best walks, and housed in the Tongariro National Park, the 19km track takes you up rocky crags and down sandy slopes, across stony paths and over narrow ridges, over vast dead spaces and dense forest. The variety of landscape is startling, as is the beauty. The Emerald Lake remains one of those travel images etched on my brain, bright and deep from above, and the idea of traversing a live volcano is something that takes a while to accept, and delight in. Billowing smoke, sulphur aroma from the geothermal pools and wafting dust help. The last major eruption was in November 2012, when the Te Maori crater started to gas. No one was hurt, but passing the point, there is still a cloud of gas and steam being emitted from the fumaroles. For something only 19km long, it’s surprisingly tough, as these tectonic beasts tend to be, and a huge achievement. adventurehq.co.nz

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NORTHISLAND AUCKLAND

follow us on experience necessary.

09 359 5987, explorenz.co.nz

BOOK NOW!

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 Museum See the world’s finest collection of Maori and Pacific Island artefacts. Explore New Zealand’s natural history, discover the largest bird that ever lived and experience a Maori cultural show.

09 309 0443, aucklandmuseum.com

i-SITE Auckland Atrium, skycity, Cnr Federal & Victoria Sts Backpackers World Travel 16-20 Fort St, 09 300 9999, backpackersworld.com

HAKA LODGE - 2015 GOLDEN BACKPACK WINNERS

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 Auckland Airport Kiwi Hotel 150 McKenzie Road, Mangere.

09 256 0046, kiwiairporthotel.co.nz Airport Skyway Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 30 Kirkbride Road, Mangere.

09 275 4443, skywaylodge.co.nz Auckland International Backpackers 2 Churton St, Parnell. +64358 4584, aucklandinternationalbp.com

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These hostels stand out from the crowd thanks to friendly staff, clean and modern facilities, spacious accommodation and relaxed atmosphere. Various hakalodge.com BK Hostel (BBH) 3 Mercury Ln, Central.

09 307 0052 bkhostel.co.nz

Queen Street Backpackers 4 Fort St. 09 373 3471, qsb.co.nz

Borders Beyond 8 Nixon St, Grey Lynn.

09 360 9880, bordersbeyond.co.nz

Uenuku Lodge (BBH) 217 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby.

09 378 8990, uenukulodge.co.nz

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

09 302 0880 citygardenlodge.co.nz

Surf ‘n’ Snow Backpackers 102 Albert St. 09 363 8889, surfandsnow.co.nz

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

Brown Kiwi (BBH) 7 Prosford St, Ponsonby.

09 378 0191, brownkiwi.co.nz

Freemans Backpackers (BBH) 65 Wellington Street.

09 376 5046 freemanbackpackers.co.nz Freinz Backpackers (BBH) 27-31 Vitoria St. East.

09 307 6437 frienz.com Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort St. 09 300 9999, nomadshostels.com Jandal Palace (BBH) 38 Glenesk Rd, RD2.

09 812 8381, pihabeachstay.co.nz JJ House (BBH) 4 MacMurray Road.

09 214 9791 jjhouse.co.nz

KR City Travellers (BBH) 146 Karangahape Rd. 09 377 6027, kroadcitytravellers.co.nz Verandahs (BBH) 6 Hopetown St. 09 360 4180, verandahs.co.nz YHA Auckland City 18 Liverpool St. 09 309 2802, yha.co.nz YHA Auckland International 5 Turner St. 09 302 8200, yha.co.nz

AUCKLAND DO

Kiwi International Hotel 411 Queen St. 0800 100 411, kiwihotel.co.nz

Explorer Bus Sightseeing around Auckland, 0800 439 756 explorerbus.co.nz

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

09 373 4546, lantanalodge.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

Oaklands Lodge (BBH) 5a Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden.

09 638 6545, oaklands.co.nz

Base Backpackers Auckland 229 Queen St. 09 358 4877, stayatbase.com

Ponsonby Backpackers 2 Franklin Rd, Ponsonby.

09 360 1311, ponsonby-backpackers.co.nz

Bamber House (BBH) 22 View Rd, Mt Eden.

09 623 4267, bamberhouse.co.nz

Princeton Backpackers 30 Symonds St. 09 963 8300, princeton.net.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

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.

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 Ponsonby West of the city, explore Victorian architecture and narrow streets with cafés, bars, clothes shops, art galleries and some lively nightlife.

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cruises to Hauraki Gulf islands, with all-day passes and hop-on, hop-off options. fullers.co.nz 09 367 9111, Pride of Auckland The Pride of Auckland operates an impressive fleet of large, purpose-built yachts on the 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. fullers.co.nz 09 367 9111, Awesome Adventures Three-day Bay of Islands tours.

0800 658 058, awesomenz.com

Beaches Auckland is surrounded by great beaches, including Judges Queen Street Bay, Kohimarama, Okahu Bay, Auckland’s main boulevard with St Heliers Bay and popular shops, cafés and restaurants.

Mission Bay. Whale & Dolphin Safari Aotea Square Markets See whales and dolphins from Every Friday and Saturday at Auckland’s doorstep. The Aotea Square, Queen St. NZ Hauraki Gulf is considered one fashion labels, retro gear, foods, of the most biologically and Pacific-style crafts, jewellery geographically diverse marine and furniture, 09 309 2677, parks in the world. See the-edge.co.nz dolphins, whales, sea birds and/ or even penguins. Dolphins are Victoria Park Market viewed on over 90% and whales 3km from the CBD, an outdoor on 75% of trips. Departs daily market with fruit, veggies, from the Auckland Viaduct. books, clothes and handicrafts.

Dolphin viewing guaranteed.

09 357 6032, exploregroup.co.nz GREAT BARRIER Fullers Cruises This unique island destination is Inner harbour cruises and longer dominated by a native forest a

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network of criss-crossing tracks. thebarrier.co.nz Orama Oasis Karaka Bay Rd, 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. fullers.co.nz 09 367 9111, 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.

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 Coastal Cow Backpackers (BBH) 299 Molesworth Drive, Mangawai Heads 09 431 5246, mangawhaibackpackers.com Little Earth Lodge (BBH) 85 Abbey Caves Road, 09 430 6562, littleearthlodge.co.nz Whangarei Falls Backpacker (BBH) 12 Ngunguru Rd, Whareora, 09 437 0609, whangareifalls.co.nz YHA Whangarei Manaakitanga 52 Punga Grove Ave, 09 438 8954, yha.co.nz

WHANGAREI DO

Hekerua Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 11 Hekerua Rd, Oneroa, 09 372 8990, hekerualodge.co.nz

Dive! Tutukaka Poor Knights Islands dives, plus tours with kayaking, cave explorations, snorkelling, swimming, sea mammalspotting.

Kina Backpackers 421 Seaview Road, Onetangi, 09 372 8971, kinabackpackers.co.nz

PAIHIA

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

Malolo House 110 Commercial Rd, 09 420 7262, malolohouse.co.nz

HENDERSON BAY North Wind Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 88 Otaipango Road, RD4, 09 409 8515 northwind.co.nz

HIBISCUS COAST Orewa Beach Hillary Square, Orewa 09 426 2638, orewabeach.co.nz Pillows Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 412 Hibiscus Coast Highway, 0800 426 6338, pillows.co.nz

SAIL ROCK

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 Cap’n Bob’s Beach House (BBH) 44 Davis Crescent, 09 402 8668, capnbobs.co.nz Centabay Lodge (BBH) 27 Selwyn Rd, 09 402 7466, centabay.co.nz

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

Admirals View Motel 2 MacMurray Rd, 09 402 6236, admiralviewlodge.co.nz

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

Mousetrap (BBH) 11 Kings Rd, 09 402 8182, mousetrap.co.nz

Peppertree Lodge 15 Kings Rd, 09 402 6122, peppertree.co.nz Pickled Parrot Backpackers (BBH) Grey’s Lane, 09 402 6222, pickledparrot.co.nz Saltwater Lodge (BBH) 14 Kings Rd, 09 402 7075, saltwaterlodge.co.nz Seabeds (BBH) 46 Davis Cres, 09 402-5567 seabeds.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

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.

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

Tourist info centre Boyd Gallery, 09 405 0230, whangaroa.co.nz

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

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

Sunseeker Lodge (BBH) 12 Old Hospital Rd, 09 405 0496, sunseekerlodge.co.nz

KARIKARI PENIN The Rusty Anchor 1 Tokerau Beach Rd, 09 406 7141, rustyanchor.hostel.com

RUSSELL STAY

KAITAIA

Wainui Lodge (BBH) 92D Te Wahapu Rd, 09 403 8278, wainuilodge-russell-nz.com

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

Pukenui Lodge Hotel (BBH) Cnr SH1 & Pukenui Wharf Rd 09 409 8837, pukenuilodge.co.nz

Ferry Landing (BBH) 395 Aucks Rd, Okiato Point 09 403 7985, ferrylandingrussell.co.nz

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

Pipi Patch Backpackers 18 Kings Road, 09 403 7111.

KERIKERI

KAITAIA DO

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

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

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

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

AHIPARA

Hideaway Lodge Wiroa Rd, 0800 562 746 kerikeri.co.nz

Kahoe Farms Hostel (BBH) 1266 State Highway 10, 09 405 1804, kahoefarms.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

Relax a Lodge (BBH) 1574 Springbank Rd (SH10) 09 407 6989 relaxalodge.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

The Rainbow Warrior A monument to the noble but doomed Greenpeace ship, Rainbow Warrior, sits on the site of a Maori

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

Hokianga Information 09 405 8869, hokianga.co.nz

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follow us on Te Awamutu District Museum 135 Roche St. 07 872 0085 tamuseum.org.nz

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Okopako Lodge (BBH) – Farm Hostel 140 Mountain Rd, Whirinaki, 09 405 8815, homepages.paradise.net. nz/njandlv/

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.

Globetrekkers Lodge (BBH) 281 State Highway 12, Omapere, 09 405 8183, globetrekkerslodge.com The Tree House Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 168 West Coast Rd, Motukaraka 09 405 5855, treehouse.co.nz

OTOROHANGA

DARGAVILLE 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 Info Centre 4 Murdoch St, 09 439 4975, dargaville.co.nz

DARGAVILLE STAY Dargaville Holiday Park 10 Onslow St, 09 439 8296, kauriparks.co.nz

JUNO HALL 600 Waitomo Caves Rd, Waitomo. Dorms from $27/$30 Juno Hall is directly across the road from The Original Black Water Rafting Company and next door to Waitomo Adventures caving base.

Waitomo DOC Office 73, Rostrevor St. 07 858 1000

HAMILTON STAY Backpackers Central 846 Victoria Street, 07 839 1928, backpackerscentral.co.nz

Kaihu Farm 334 State Highway 12, Kaihu, 09 439 4004.

Greenhouse Backpackers (BBH) 15 Gordon St, 09 439 6342, bbh.co.nz

Eagle’s Nest Backpackers 937 Victoria St, 07 838 2704, eaglesbackpackers.co.nz

MATAKOHE

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 Farm (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

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

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

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Central Green (BBH) 846 Victoria St, 07 839 1928, backpackerscentral.co.nz

Travellers Lodge (BBH) 64 Jellicoe Rd, Ruawai, 09 439 2283, bbh.co.nz

Just 59km south of Hamilton, many travellers use this small farming community as a base for visiting the Waitomo Caves.

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, 07 825 7076, ragland.org.nz

RAGLAN STAY Solscape Eco Retreat Backpackers (BBH) 611 Wainui Rd, 07 825 8268, solscape.co.nz Raglan Backpackers & Waterfront Lodge (BBH) 6 Wi Neera St, 07 825 0515, raglanbackpackers.co.nz Karioi Backpacker Lodge (VIP) & 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

Otorohanga Visitor Info Centre 27 Turongo St, 07 873 8951, otorohanga.co.nz Otorohanga kiwi House & Native Bird Park 20 Alex Telfer Drive, 07 873 7391, kiwihouse.org.nz

WAITOMO 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 Kiwi Cave Rafting (BBH) 95 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 873 9149, caveraft.com

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, 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

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TE KUITI Te Kuiti Information Centre Rora St, 07 878 8077.

Dept of Conservation 78 Taupiri Street, 07 878 1080.

Tiffany’s Cafe, 241 Rora St, 07 878 7640

TE KUITI STAY Casara Mesa Backpackers (BBH) Mangarino Rd, 07 878 6697, bbh.co.nz Coromandel Top 10 Holiday Park 636-732 Rings Rd, 07 866 8830, coromandeltop10.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, otorohanga.co.nz

COROMANDEL 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,

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07 866 7992, anchorlodgecoromandel.co.nz Black Jack Backpackers Kuaotunu, 07 866 2988, black-jack.co.nz

Fernbird (BBH) 24 Harsant Ave, Hahei, 07 866 3080, bbh.co.nz

Colville Farm (BBH) 2140 Colville Road, Colville, 07 866 6820

On the Beach Backpackers Lodge (BBH, YHA) 46 Buffalo Beach Rd, 07 866 5380, onthebeachbackpackers.co.nz

Mahamudra Retreat Colville Rd, 07 866 6851 mahamudra.org.nz

Seabreeze Holiday Park (BBH) 1043 SH25 Tairua-Whitianga Rd, 07 866 3050

The Pinnacles Backpackers (BBH) 305 Main Road (SH25), 07 864 8448, pinnaclesbakpak.co.nz

Tatahi Lodge (BBH) 9 Grange Rd, Hahei, 07 866 3992, tatahilodge.co.nz

Lions Den (BBH) 126 Te Tiki St, 07 866 8157 ionsdenhostel.co.nz

TAURANGA

Tui Lodge (BBH) 60 Whangapoua Rd, 07 866 8237, coromandeltuilodge.co.nz

One of the fastest growing places in NZ, Tauranga combines a young population with a harbourside atmosphere. Enjoy diving, sailing, fishing and surfing.

Tairua Backpackers (BBH) 200 Main Road, 07 864 8345, tairuabackpackers.com

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 NZ Surf n Stay (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.

Tauranga i-site 95 Willow St, 07 578 8103 bayofplenty.co.nz Department of Conservation 253 Chadwick Rd West, 07 578 7677

TAURANGA STAY Apple Tree Backpackers (BBH) 47 Maxwell Rd, 07 576 4001 appletreebackpackers.co.nz Harbourside City Backpackers 105 The Strand, 07 579 4066, backpacktauranga.co.nz Bell Lodge (BBH) 39 Bell St, Judea, 07 578 6344, bell-lodge.co.nz Just The Ducks Nuts Backpackers 6 Vale St, 07 576 1366, justtheducksnuts.co.nz Kingfisher Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 122b Word Road, 07 552 0388, kingfisher-backpack.co.nz Loft 109 (BBH) 8/109 Devonport Rd, 07 579 5638, loft109.co.nz

Whitianga Information Centre 118 Oceanview Rd, 09 372 1234 whitianga.co.nz

Pacific Coast Lodge 432 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui Beach, 0800 666 622 / +64 7574 9601, pacificcoastlodge.co.nz

Baywatch Backpackers (VIP) 22 The Esplanade, 07 866 5481, whitianga.co.nz/baywatch

Seagulls Guesthouse (BBH) 12 Hinau Street, 07 574 2099, seagullsguesthouse.co.nz

Cathedral Cove Lodge 41 Harsant Ave, Hahei Beach, 07 866 3889, cathedralcove.co.nz

Tauranga Central Backpackers 64 Willow St, 07 571 6222, tgabackpack.co.nz

Cat’s Pyjamas Backpackers (BBH) 12 Albert St, 07 866 4663, cats-pyjamas.co.nz

YHA Tauranga 171 Elizabeth St, 07 578 5064, yha.co.nz

TAURANGA DO Waimarino Adventure Park 07 576 4233, waimarino.com Coyote Bar and Restaurant 107 The Strand, 07 578 8968.

TE PUKE Te Puke Information Centre 130 Jellicoe St, 07 573 9172 tepuke.co.nz

TE PUKE STAY Hairy Berry Backpacker Hostel 2 No One Rd, Te Puke, 07 573 8015, work@hairyberrynz.com Kiwi Corral Backpackers 26 Young Road, 07 573 4530, kiwicorral.co.nz Blue Tide Beachfront Retreat 7 Te Awhe Rd, Maketu Beach, 07 533 2033, bluetides.co.nz

TE PUKE DO Kiwifruit Country Young Rd, 07 573 6340, kiwifruitcountry.co.nz 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 Otapawa Farmstay (BBH) 255 Haunui Road, 06 376 7250 otapawafarmstay.co.nz/ backpackers

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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 Astray Motel & Backpackers (BBH) 1202 Pukuatua St, 07 348 1200, astray.co.nz Base Backpackers Rotorua 1286 Arawa St, 07 348 8636, stayatbase.com Blarney’s Rock Backpackers 1210 Tutanekai St, 07 343 7904, blarneysrock.com Cactus Jack Backpackers 1210 Haupapa St, 0800 122 228 cactusjackbackpackers.com Crash Palace Backpackers 1271 Hinemaru St, 07 348 842, crashpalace.co.nz Funky Green Voyager (BBH) 4 Union St, 07 346-1754, funkygreenvoyager.co.nz Kiwipaka 60 Tarewa Rd, 07 347 0931, kiwipaka.co.nz Planet Nomad Backpackers 1080 Eruera St, 07 350 2550, rotoruaplanetbackpackers.co.nz Oasis Hostel/Backpackers 33A Tarewa Rd, 07 343 6563, oasishostel.co.nz

Whakatane Hotel 79 The Strand, 07 307 1670

Rotorua Central Backpackers (BBH) 1076 Pukuatua St, 07 349 3285, rotoruacentralbackpackers.co.nz

The Windsor 10 Merritt St, Whakatane, 07 308 8040, windsorlodge-backpackers.co.nz

Rotorua Downtown Backpackers (BBH) 1193 Fenton St, 07 347 1170, rotorua-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

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 Waikite Hot Pools Natural hot spring water bathing. Provides private spas, BBQ area and campground facilities, 20 minutes south of Rotorua. hotpools.co.nz Waimangu Volcanic Valley The location of the Pink and White Terraces which were destroyed in the 1886 volcanic eruption. waimangu.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 Zorb Rotorua Get harnessed inside the perspex Zorb before rolling head-over-heels downhill, 07 357 5100, zorb.com

MAORI CULTURE

Spa Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 1221 Amohau Street, 07 348 3486, spalodge.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.

YHA Rotorua 1278 Haupapa St, 07 349 4088, yha.co.nz

NZ Maori Arts & Crafts Institute 07 348 9047 tepuia.com

Roquette Restaurant & Bar 23/29 Quay St. 07 307 0722

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

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

Wallys on the Wharf 2 The Strand, 07 307 0722,

Hell’s Gate Mud baths to heal and stimulate your body

Whakarewarewa Thermal Village Maori village set amidst a

The Wharf Shed Restaurant 2/2 The Strand E. 07 308 5698

ROTORUA DO

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NORTHISLAND 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 Blackcurrant Backpackers (BBH) 20 Taniwha St, 07 378 9292, blackcurrantbp.co.nz 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, budgetaccommodation taupo.co.nz Sportsman Lodge Backpackers Retreat 15 Taupahi Rd, 0800 366 208, sportsmanslodge.co.nz Base Taupo 7 Tuwharetoa St, 07 377 4464, stayatbase.com Taupo Urban Retreat 65 Heu Heu St, 0800 872 261, tur.co.nz Tiki Lodge 104 Tuwharetoa St, 0800 845 456, tikilodge.co.nz YHA Taupo 56 Kaimanawa St, 07 378 3311, yha.co.nz 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

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

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62,000 gallons per second. hukafalls.com Hukafalls Jet Jetboating by the falls, 0800 485 2538, hukafallsjet.com Rock ‘n’ Ropes Ropes Courses including the trapeze and Giant Swing. At Crazy Catz on Highway 5. 0800 244 508, rocknropes.co.nz Taupo Bungy Bungy from a platform 47m above the Waikato River. 202 Spa Rd. 0800 888 408, taupobungy.com Tongariro Crossing Transport and National Park Links From Taupo and Turangi during summer months (NovMay).

07 377 0435, thetongarirocrossing.co.nz Taupo Tandem Skydiving Skydive from up to 15,000 feet (over one minute freefall). Free shuttle, DVD and digital photos.

Yellow Hangar, Taupo Airport.

0800 275 934, taupotandemskydiving.com

TURANGI On the southern shores of Lake Taupo, Turangi is known as the trout fishing capital of the world. It offers heaps of outdoor adventure 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 A Plus Samurai Lodge (BBH) 41 Iwiheke Place, 07 386 8979, tongariro-hostel.co.nz Asure Parklands Motorlodge Cnr Arahori St & State Hwy 1, 07 386 7515, parklandsmotorlodge.co.nz Extreme Backpackers (BBH) 26 Ngawaka Place, 07 386 8949, extremebackpackers.co.nz Judges Pool Motel 92 Taupahi Rd, 07 386 7892, judgepoolmotel.co.nz

BOOK NOW!

TONGARIRO

Mokai Gravity Canyon Extreme flying fox, bridge swing and bungy jump.

0800 802 864

Adventure Lodge & Motel (VIP) Carroll Street, National Park, 07 892 2991, adventurenationalpark.co.nz

River Valley Rafting and horse trekking.

06 388 1444, thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz

turangiholidaypark.co.nz

The Crossing Backpackers Erua Rd East, 07 892 2894, thecrossingbackpackers.co.nz daKune Lodge (BBH) 42 Park Ave, Ohakune 06 385 8448, dakunelodge.co.nz Howards Mountain Lodge (BBH) 43 Carroll St, National Park, 07 892 2827, howardslodge.co.nz Skotel Alpine Resort Whakapapa Village, 07 892 3715, skotel.co.nz National Park Backpackers YHA (BBH) 4 Findlay St. The hostel runs transport to the Tongariro Crossing, 07 892 2870, npbp.co.nz Pipers Lodge 18 Millar St, National Park Village, 07 8922 777, piperslodge.co.nz Plateau Lodge 17 Caroll St, National Park Village, 07 8922 993, plateaulodge.co.nz Ski Haus (BBH) Carroll St, McKenzie St, 07 892 2854, skihaus.co.nz Station Lodge (BBH) 60 Thames Street, The Junction, Ohakune, 06 385 8797, stationlodge.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 Lazy Dog (BBH) 3 Rangipoia Place, 07 386 0317, lazydogbackpackers.co.nz

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.

Riverstone Backpackers (BBH) 222 Tautahanga Rd, 07 386 7004, riverstonebackpackers.com

Rangitikei Farmstay 422 Makuhou Rd, 06 327 4495, rangitikeifarmstay.govt.nz

Settlers Motel 24 Arahori St, 07 386 7745, settlersmotelturangi.co.nz Turangi Kiwi Holiday Park 13 Te Reiti Tamara Grove, 07 386 8754,

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River Valley Dorms Makuhou Rd 06 388 1444, rivervalley.co.nz

RANGITIKEI DO

OPOTIKI Opotiki Information Centre Cnr St John and Elliot Sts, 07 315 3031 opotikinz.com Central Oasis Backpackers 30 King St, 07 315 5165, centraloasis@hotmail.com Fruit Forest Studio 197 Omarumutu Rd, 07 315 8143, fruitforest.co.nz Opotiki Beach House (BBH) 7 Appleton Road, 07 315 5117 opotikibeachhouse.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.

Maraehako Bay Retreat SH35, Whanarua Bay, 07 325 2648. maraehako.co.nz Stranded in Paradise (BBH) 21 Potae Street, 06 864 5870, stranded-in-paradise.net Wainui Beach Motel 34 Wairere Rd, 06 868 5882, wainuibeachmotel.co.nz

GISBORNE Flying Nun Backpackers (BBH) 147 Roebuck Rd, 06 868 0461, flynun.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.

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NAPIER STAY Aqua Lodge (BBH) 53 Nelson Cres, 06 835 4523, bbh.co.nz Archie’s Bunker (BBH) 15 Herschell Street, 06 833 7990, archiesbunker.co.nz The Art House (BBH) 259 Marine Parade, 06 835 5575, arthousenapier.co.nz Blue Water Lodge (BBH) 471 Marine Parade, 06 835 8593, arthousenapier.co.nz Criterion Art Deco Backpackers (VIP, Roamfree) - (BBH) 60 Whangapoua Rd, 07 866 8237, coromandeltuilodge.co.nz 48 Emerson St, 06 835 2059, criterionartdeco.co.nz Stable Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 370 Hastings Street, 06 835 6242, bluewaterlodge.co.nz Toad Hall Backpackers (BBH) 11 Shakespeare Road, 06 835 5555, toadhall.co.nz Waterfront Lodge & Backpackers 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, a1backpackers.co.nz Glenross Lodge (BBH) Route 52, Rakaunui, 06 376 7288, tararua.net/glenross Lochlea Farmstay 344 Lake Rd, Wanstead, +6468554816 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, ajs.backpackerslodge.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.

Visitor Info Centre 100 Marine Parade, 06 834 1911

MOKAU

Depart of Conservation Office Marine Parade, 06 834 3111

Palm House Backpackers taranaki-bakpak.co.nz

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SPOTLIGHT

The nation’s capital is to many people, New Zealand’s most interesting city.

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

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

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

WELLY STAY Barnacles Seaside Inn (BBH) 3 Marine Parade.

04 902 5856 seasideyha.co.nz

GREAT LAKE TAUPO Brimming with awesome activities, loads of sweet and FREE places to chill and things to do, friendly locals and a MASSIVE lake, not to mention the best place to be if you are going to pay a visit to Mount Ngauruhoe...better known as Mount DOOM to you fans scouting for Lord of the Rings film locations.

Taupo greatlaketaupo.com

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 EcoInn (BBH) 671 Kent Rd, between Egmont Village and New Plymouth on SH3. 06 752 2765 ecoinnovation. co.nz/t-Accommodation.aspx 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, seasprayhouse.co.nz

Stratford Heritage Lodge 103 Miranda St, 06 765 7482, eastern-taranaki.co.nz

Hikurangi Stay Place 1 Mount View Road, 06 343 333 stayplace.co.nz

Taranaki Accommodation Lodge (BBH) 7 Romeo St, Stratford, 06 765 5444, info@mttaranakilodge.co.nz

YHA Whanganui 2 Plymouth St, 06 348 2301, yha.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

Ducks & Drakes Backpackers (BBH) 48 Lemon St, 06 758 0404 ducksanddrakes.co.nz

Information South Taranaki 55 High St, Hawera, 0800 111 323, southtaranaki.com

Sunflower Lodge (BBH) 33 Timandra St, 06 758, 2842 sunflowerlodge.co.nz

Wheatly Downs Farmstay Backpackers (BBH) 484 Ararata Rd, Hawera, 06 278 6523, mttaranaki.co.nz/retreat/ wheatly_downs_farmstay/

PLYMOUTH DO Brooklands Zoo Brooklands, New Plymouth, 06 759 6060, info@npdc.govt.nz

MT TARANAKI

WHANGANUI College House 42b Campbell Street, 021 852 100 42b.co.nz

Tamara Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 24 Somme Pde, 06 347 6300, tamaralodge.com 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 Department of Conservation Office 717 Tremaine Ave, 06 350 9700 Grandma’s Place (BBH) 146 Grey St, 06 358 6928, grandmas-place.com Pepper Tree Hostel (BBH) 121 Grey St, 06 355 4054, peppertreehostel.co.nz

WELLINGTON

Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. 04 801 5666 stayatbase.com

Mount Victoria The views are breathtaking. It’s damn windy so make sure you’re wearing heavy shoes. Walk, drive or bus it.

Cambridge Hotel (BBH) 28 Cambridge Tce. 04 385 8829, cambridgehotel.co.nz

Museum of Wellington City & Sea Queens Wharf, 04 472 8904

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers (BBH) 1 Bunny St. 04 473 8482 hotelwaterloo.co.nz Lodge in the City (BBH) 152 Taranaki St. 04 385 8560 lodgeinthecity.co.nz Moana Lodge (BBH) 49 Moana Road.

04 233 2010 lmoana-lodge-accommodation. co.nz Wellywood Backpackers 58 Tory St, 04 381 3899, wellywoodbackpackers.co.nz Nomads Capital 118/120 Wakefield St. 0508 666 237, nomadscapital.com

The Setup (BBH) Level 3/15, Dixon Street, Te Aro 04 802 4779 setupdixon.co.nz

YHA Wellington City 292 Wakefield St. 04 801 7280 yha.co.nz

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

Harbour cruises The harbour is a handsome thing and the best way to fully appreciate its beauty is by boat.

Rowena’s Lodge 115 Brougham St. 04 385 7872, wellingtonbackpackers.co.nz

Worldwide Backpackers (BBH) 291 The Terrace.

04 802 5590, worldwidenz.co.nz

Parliament House Free tours. Visit the Beehive, a uniquely designed centre of government with a distinct style of architecture, 04 471 9503

Wellington Zoo Located in Newtown and home to a wide variety of weird and wonderful animal and bird life, 04 381 6755

Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 MacDonald Crescent.

04 384 3041, backpackerswellington.co.nz

Wild Zebra Backpackers (BBH) 58 Tory Street. wellingtonbackpacker.com

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 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 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 Abba Lodge (BBH) 11 Awaroa Bay, 03 528 8758, abbalodge.co.nz 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 Aurora Backpackers (BBH) 161-163 Trafalger Square.

03 929 5553, aurorabackpackers.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 Villa by the Sea (BBH) 252 Haven Rd. 03 545 8365, villabythesea.co.nz Footprints by the Sea 31 Beach Rd, Tahuna Beach.

03 546 5441,

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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 honeysucklehouse. weebly.com/ 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 The Prince Albert Backpackers (BBH) 113 Nile St. 03 548 8477 theprincealbert.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 Shortbread Cottage (BBH) 33 Trafalgar St. 03 546 6681 shortbreadcottage.co.nz Tasman Bay Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 10 Weka St. 03 548 7950, tasmanbaybackpackers.co.nz Trampers Rest (BBH) 31 Alton St. 03 545 7477 Idesia B&B 14 Idesia Grove, Richmond, 03 544 0409 YHA Nelson 59 Rutherford St, 03 545 9988, yha.co.nz

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.

BOOK NOW! MOTUEKA 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.

Motueka i-SITE Visitors Centre 20 Wallace St, 03 528 6543, motuekaisite.co.nz

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, edensedge.co.nz Motueka Garden Motel 71 King Edward St, 0800 101 911, motmotel.co.nz Hat Trick Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 25 Wallace St. 03 528 5353, hattricklodge.co.nz Laughing Kiwi (BBH) 310 High St. 03 528 9229, laughingkiwi.co.nz Old Macdonald’s Farm Holiday Park 03 527 8288, oldmacs.co.nz The White Elephant (BBH) 55 Whakarewa St. 03 528 6208, whiteelephant.co.nz Equestrian Lodge Motel 2 Avalon Ct, 03 528 9369

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 Annie’s Nirvana Lodge (BBH, YHA) 25 Motupipi St. 03 525 8766, nirvanalodge.co.nz

follow us on Aquapackers Anchorage Bay, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 0800 430 744, aquapackers.co.nz Golden Bay Barefoot Backpackers (BBH) 114 Commercial St. 03 525 7005, bare-foot.co.nz Kiwiana (BBH) 73 Motuipipi St. 03 525 7676 kiwianabackpackers.co.nz Kanuka Ridge (BBH) 21 Moss Rd, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 03 527 8435, abeltasmanbackpackers.co.nz The Rocks chalets 2086 Takaka Valley Hwy, 03 525 8096, travelbug.co.nz River Inn Golden Bay. 03 525 9425 riverinn.co.nz Shambhala (BBH) 1234 Takaka-Collingwood Highway. 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.

@tnt_downunder portage.co.nz Watson Way Backpackers (BBH) 56 High Street 03 572 8228 watsonswaylodge.com

PICTON This pretty town is the opening to the South Island, where the North Island ferry comes in, a centre for the many activities in Queen Charlotte Sound.

Airport shuttle bus 03 573 7125

PICTON STAY Atlantis Backpackers (BBH) 42 London Quay, 03 573 7390, atlantishostel.co.nz The Buccaneer Lodge 314 Waikawa Rd, 03 573 5002, buccaneerlodge.co.nz The Jugglers Rest (BBH) 8 Canterbury St. 03 573 5570, jugglersrest.com Fat Cod Backpackers (BBH) 9 Auckland St, 03 573 7788, fatcodbackpackers.co.nz 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

The Innlet (BBH) 839 Pakawau Main Rd, 03 524 8040, theinnlet.co.nz

Tombstone Backpackers (BBH) 16 Gravesend Place. 03 573 7116, tombstonebp.co.nz

Somerset House (BBH) 10 Gibbs Rd. 03 524 8624, backpackerscollingwood.co.nz

Parklands Marina Holiday Park 10 Beach Rd, 03 573 6343, parktostay.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 401 (BBH) 401 Anakiwa Rd. 03 574 1388, anakiwabackpackers.co.nz Copperbeech (BBH) 73 Maxwell Rd. 03 579 2246, copperbeechbackpackers@hotmail. com Hopewell (BBH) Kenepuru Rd. 03 573 4341, hopewell.co.nz The Partage Resort Hotel Kenepuru Sound. 0800 275 373,

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.

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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 Linkwater Motel 1594 Queen Charlotte Dr, 03 574 2600 linkwatermotel.co.nz Okiwa Bay Lodge 169 Anakiwa Rd, 03 574 2527, okiwabaylodge.co.nz

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 Koanui Lodge & Backpackers (BBH) 33 Main St. 03 578 7487, koanui.co.nz The Grapevine (BBH) 29 Park Terrace, 03 578 6062, thegrapevine.co.nz Arrow Backpackers (BBH) 107 Budge St, 03 577 9857, bbh.co.nz Leeways Backpackers (BBH) 33 Lansdowne St, 03 579 2213, leeways.byethost22.com

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 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 Sunrise Lodge (BBH) 74 Beach Rd, 03 319 7444, bbh.co.nz The Fairways at Ocean Ridge 1 Kersage Drive, 03 319 3055 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

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

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.

LEWIS PASS

Around the World Backpackers 314 Barbadoes Street. 03 365 4363 aroundtheworld.co.nz

Christchurch Backpackers Haka Lodge 518 Linwood Av, Woolston,. 03 980 4252, hakalodge.co.nz

At The Right Place (BBH) 85 Bealey Street.

03 366 1633 atrp.co.nz

BANKS PENINSULA

Avon City Backpackers Worcester Street. 03 389 6876, avoncitybackpackers.com Dorset House (BBH) 1 Dorset St, 03 366 8268, dorset.co.nz Celtic Backpackers (BBH) 12 Dublin St, 03 377 4417, celticbackpackers.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 Point Break Backpackers 6 Union Street.

03 388 2050 pointbreakbackpackers.co.nz The Old Countryhouse (BBH) 437 Gloucester St. 03 381 5504 oldcountryhousenz.com Tranquil Lodge 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

C’CHURCH DO

Banks Peninsula is a beautiful region with a stunning coastline chock full of mountains and wildlife.

The two harbours of Akaroa and Lyttelton are craters of a once majestic volcano.

LYTTELTON

About 200km north of Christchurch, the Lewis Pass connects the west and east coasts on the SH7, with stunning surrounding scenery.

HANMER SPRINGS Hanmer Springs boasts the Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve, where the water can reach 40°C (03 315 7511, hotfun.co.nz). Mt Lyford offers good winter skiing and is a cheaper option to the South Island resorts.

Department of Conservation 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.

The Hanmer Connection Christchurch to Hanmer Springs buses. hanmerconnection.co.nz

Lyttelton Information Centre 20 Oxford St, 03 328 9093

HANMER STAY

AKAROA Swim with dolphins, horse-ride and paraglide. If your tastes are a little more sedate, the foreshore is lined with cafes, galleries and boutiques.

Hanmer Backpackers 41 Conical Hill Rd. 03 315 7196, www.hanmerbackpackers.co.nz Jack in the Green (BBH) 3 Devon St. 03 315 5111, jackinthegreen.co.nz

Akaroa Information Centre 80 Rue Lavaud, 03 304 8600

Kakapo Lodge (YHA) 14 Amuri Avenue. 03 315 7472, kakapolodge.co.nz

Akaroa Shuttle Christchurch to Akaroa buses.

0800 500 929

Waipara Sleepers (BBH) 12 Glenmark Dr, Waipara.

03 314 6003, waiparasleepers.co.nz

Akaroa French Connection Tours and shuttle bus, 0800 800 575

AKAROA STAY Bon Accord Backpackers (BBH) 57 Rue Lavaud.

03 304 7782, bon-accord.co.nz Chez La Mer (BBH) 50 Rue Lavaud. 03 304 7024, chezlamer.co.nz Double Dutch (BBH) 32 Chorlton Road, Okains Bay. 03 304 7229, doubledutch.co.nz Halfmoon Cottage (BBH) SH25 Barrys Bay. 03 304 5050, halfmoon.co.nz

Black Cat Cruises Wildlife Cruises on Lyttelton Harbour. Free shuttle bus from Christchurch, 03 328 9078. blackcat.co.nz

Onuku Farm Hostel (BBH) 03 304 7066, onuku.co.nz

Skydivingnz.com Skydiving and training courses, 0800 697 593 skydivingnz.com

Akaroa Museum 71 Rue Lavard, 03 304 1013

Aoraki Balloon Safaris Hot air ballooning, 03 302 8172, nzballooning.com

Black Cat Cruises Offer a number of cruises in Akaroa. See Akaroa Harbour or swim with dolphins. blackcat.co.nz

SUMNER

Swim with dolphins in Akaroa Harbour. 61 Beach Rd, 0508 365 744, dolphinsakaroa.co.nz

AKAROA DO

Dolphin Experience

CASTLE HILL Gateway to the Craigieburn Range.

Chill Adventures Multi-mountain snow passes. chillout.co.nz Springfield Hotel State Highway 73, Springfield. 03 318 4812, springfieldhotel.co.nz

ARTHUR’S PASS This township is the HQ for the magnificent national park which offers tramping expeditions to skiing.

National Park Visitor Centre 03 318 9211 Mountain House (BBH) Main Road, Arthur’s Pass National Park. 03 318 9258 trampers.co.nz Rata Lodge Backpackers (BBH) State Highway 73, Otira Arthur’s Pass National Park, 03 738 2822 rata-lodge.co.nz The Sanctuary (BBH) 126 Main Road, Arther’s Pass National Park 03 942 2230, thesanctuary.co.nz Smylies Accommodation (YHA) 03 318 9258, yha.co.nz

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SOUTHISLAND METHVEN

LAKE TEKAPO

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.

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.

Methven i-SITE Visitor Centre 160 Main St, Methven, 03 302 8955, NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt. nzski.com

METHVEN STAY Brinkley Resort 43 Barkers Rd, Mt Hutt, 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 11 Alford St. 0800 638 483, pinedalelodge.co.nz Redwood Lodge (BBH) 3 Wayne Place. 03 302 8964, snowboardnz.com Skiwi House 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.

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

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

YHA Lake Tekapo 3 Simpson Lane. 03 680 6857, yha.co.nz

MT COOK Mt Cook National Park is part of a World Heritage area that forms one of the most amazing sights in NZ. The showcase is Mt Cook (Aoraki).

NZ’s greatest climber Sir Edmund Hillary used it for practice before conquering Mt Everest, but Mt Cook has claimed the lives of more than 160 people. Discuss climbing plans with 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

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

REEFTON The centrepiece of the town is Victoria Forest Park, the largest forest park in New Zealand.

Beaconstone Eco Lodge Birds Ferry Road Charleston 027 431 0491 beconstoneecolodge.co.nz The Old Slaughterhouse (BBH) Dean Creek, RD1, Highway 67, Hector 03 782 8333 oldslaughterhouse.co.nz TripInn (BBH) 72 Queen St. 03 789 7367 tripinn.co.nz

PAPAROA NP

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

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

MURCHISON

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.

Noahs Ark Backpackers (BBH) 16 Chapel St, 03 768 4868, noahs.co.nz

Bazil’s Hostel (VIP) – (BBH) 54/56 Russell St. 03 789 6410, bazils.co.nz

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

WHATAROA

GREYMOUTH STAY

The Old Nurses Home 104 Shiel St, 03 789 8881

WESTPORT

right, it can’t look as good as that in real life. Hokitika Gorge is one of those places. hokitika.org

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.

Global Village (BBH) 42-54 Cowper St, 03 768 7272, globalvillagebackpackers.co.nz

Visitor Information Westport 1 Brougham St, 03 789 6658

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TranzAlpine Scenic railway from Christchurch to Greymouth, travelling through Canterbury Plains and the Alps. Departs 9am every morning. 0800 872 467 tranzscenic.co.nz

Reefton Old Bread Shop 155 Buller Rd, 03 732 8420, reeftonbackpackers.co.nz

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.

KARAMEA

Visitor Information Herbert and Mackay Sts, 03 768 5101

Duke Hostel (BBH) 27 Guiness St. 03 768 9470 duke.co.nz

WEST COAST

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.

brewery tour, as well as aquatic activities like rafting and canyoning.

Reefton Visitor Centre 67 Broadway, 03 732 8391

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.

Peel Forest Horse Trekking Wilderness adventures trekking through some gorgeous country, 03 696 3703, peelforesthorsetrekking.co.nz

Rawhiti House (BBH) 27 Hewlings St. 03 693 8252 rawhitibackpackers.co.nz

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Tailor-Made-Tekapo Backpackers (BBH) 10/11 Aorangi Cres.

03 680 6700 tailor-made-backpackers.co.nz

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Greymouth KIWI Holiday Park & Motel 318 Main South Rd, 03 762 6768, southbeach.co.nz Kainga-RA YHA 15 Alexander St, Ph: (03) 768 4951, yha.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 Birdsong (BBH) 124 SH6, 03 755 7179 birdsong.co.nz Drifting Sands Backpackers (BBH) 197 Revell St, driftingsands.kiwi Mountain Jade Backpackers (BBH) 41 Weld St, 03 755 5185, mountainjadebackpackers.co.nz Riverview Cottage & Cabins (BBH) 154 Kaniere Rd, 03 755 7440 riverviewcottageandcabins.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

OKARITO

Okarito Nature Tours 03 753 4014, okarito.co.nz Okarito Beach House Close to Franz Josef Glacier, 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: Sir Cendrics (VIP, BBH) 8-10 Cron St, 0800 728 372, sircedrics.co.nz Glow Worm Cottages (BBH) 27 Cron St, 0800 151 027, glowwormcottages@xtra.co.nz Montrose Lodge (BBH) 9 Cron St, 03 752 0188, montroselodge.co.nz Rainforest Retreat (VIP) Cron St, 0800 873 346 rainforestretreat.co.nz YHA Franz Josef 2-4 Cron St, 03 752 0754, yha.co.nz

FRANZ DO Alpine Adventure Centre Footage on a helimax screen, 03 752 0793 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,

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SOUTHISLAND

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FOX GLACIER Similiar activities to Franz Josef only with fewer crowds. The best walk is up to the Welcome Flat Hot Springs.

For stunning views, head up the wonderfully scenic Chalet Lookout Walk. Look out for the beautiful kea (grey-green mountain parrot).

Nearby is Lake Matheson, with its stunning twin mountain reflection.

DOC Visitor Centre State Hwy 6, 03 752 0796

FOX STAY Fox Glacier Inn (BBH) 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, wildernessaccommodation.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 Holly’s Backpackers (BBH) 71 Upton St, 03 443 8187, hollys-backpacker.co.nz LHH (BBH) 1 Capell Ave, 03 443 1224, lakehawea.co.nz Mountain View Backpackers (BBH) 7 Russell St, 0800 112 201, wanakabackpackers.co.nz Matterhorn South (BBH) 56 Brownston St, 03 443 1119, matterhornsouth.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

WANAKA DO Adventure Consultants Mountaineering instruction courses and guided ascents, 03 443 8711, adventure.co.nz Aspiring Guides Guided mountain climbing and ice climbing instruction courses, 03 443 9422, aspiringguides.com 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

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

LAKE HAWEA Thirty-five kilometres long and more than 400m deep, Lake Hawea is a great source of salmon and rainbow trout.

QUEENSTOWN Paradise for the energetic traveller, Queenstown is one of the world’s most action-packed towns. The town, which is surprisingly small compared to its big reputation, is located on Lake Wakatipu and rises up to the peaks of the aptly-named Remarkables (which you can ski in winter). In winter, the town is a centre for nearby skifields and in summer adventure activities and tramping take over. There’s also a hectic social scene which extends well into the wee small hours.

Info & Track Guided Walks 37 Shotover St, 03 442 9708 Peterpans Adventure Travel 27 Shotover St Queenstown. peterpans.com.au Queenstown Travel & Visitor Centre Corner of Shotover & Camp Sts, 03 442 4100

Q’TOWN STAY Alpine Lodge (BBH) 13 Gorge Rd. 03 442 7220, alpinelodgebackpackers.co.nz 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 (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

The Silver Demon Aerobatic flights.

03 443 4043, silverdemon.co.nz

Cardrona Alpine Resort Between Queenstown and Wanaka.

03 443 7341, cardrona.com

Skydive Lake Wanaka Freefall from 12,000 or 15,000ft with views of NZ’s highest mountains. 0800 786 877, skydivenz.com

Deco Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 52 Man St. 03 442 7384, decobackpackers.co.nz

Treble Cone Ski Field 03 443 7443, treblecone.co.nz

Flaming Kiwi Backpackers (BBH) 39 Robins Rd. 03 442 5494, flamingkiwi.co.nz Hippo Lodge (BBH)

4 Anderson Hts. 03 442 5785, hippolodge.co.nz

0800 467 325, tandemparagliding.com

The Last Resort Queenstown (BBH) 6 Memorial St. 03 442 4320, tlrqtn.com

Haka Adventure Snow Tours 03 980 4250, hakatours.com Mad Dog River Boarding River sledging & other actionpacked water activities, 03 442 7797, riverboarding.co.nz

Nomads Queenstown 5-11 Church St. 03 441 3922, nomadshostels.com 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 rooms, dorm beds and selfcontained family cabins. 48 Hamilton Rd. 0800 746 396, 03 442 8273, pinewood.co.nz Southern Laughter: Sir Cedrics (BBH, VIP) 4 Isle St. 0800 441 8828, sircedrics.co.nz

Milford Sound Flightseeing Scenic flights to Milford Sound, 0800 65 65 01, realjourneys.co.nz NZONE Skydive Skydive from 15,000ft. 35 Shotover St, 03 442 5867, nzone.biz NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt, nzski.com Queenstown Rafting Raft the Shotover, Kawarau and Landsborough rivers. 35 Shotover St. 03 442 9792 rafting.co.nz

Scallywags Travellers’ Guesthouse (BBH) 27 Lomond Crescent.

03 442 7083, bbh.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

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

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

Awesome Foursome Bungy (Nevis – 134m), jetboat, helicopter, whitewater rafting, combos.co.nz

Glenorchy Backpackers Retreat (VIP) Cnr Mull and Argyle Streets, Glenorchy, glenorchynz.com

Dart River Safaris Jetboating wilderness tours, 0800 327 8538, dartriver.co.nz

Kinloch Lodge 862 Kinloch Rd, 03 442 4900, kinlochlodge.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 Flight Park Tandem Paragliding Operates from Coronet Peak

ARROWTOWN Poplar Lodge 4 Merioneth St, 03 442 1466, poplarlodge.co.nz Arrowtown Holiday Park 12 Centennial Ave, 03 442 1876

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SOUTHISLAND 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 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 Bob & Maxine’s (BBH) 20 Paton Place, 03 931 3161, bbh.co.za Rosie’s Backpacker Homestay (BBH) 23 Tom Plato Drive, Lake Te Anau, 03 249 8431, rosiesbackpackers.co.nz Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers (BBH) 48/50 Lakefront Dr, 03 249 7713, teanaubackpackers.co.za Steamers Beach Backpackers (BBH) 77 Manapouri- Te Anau Hwy, 03 249 7737, smarturl.it/steamersbeach 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,

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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, tawakidive.co.nz

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 DO Real Journeys 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz Great Sights On and under the water, 03 442 9445 greatsights.co.nz Milford Sound Underwater Observatory Discover a coral reef beneath Milford Sound, 03 249 9442 Milford Sound Cruise & Observatory Visit 0800 656 501

BOOK NOW! realjourneys.co.nz Wanaka Flightseeing Milford Sound flight and cruise, 0800 105 105, flightseeing.co.nz 

MANAPOURI Manapouri is the proud owner of arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful stretch of water. This is where the boat trip on Doubtful Sound leaves from – most start the trip in Queenstown or Te Anau. From the boat you may see seals and possibly dolphins and penguins.

Adventure Charters and Hires fiordlandadventure.co.nz Real Journeys 03 249 6602 realjourneys.co.nz

MANAPOURI STAY Freestone Backpackers (BBH) 270 Hillside Rd, 03 249 6893, freestone.co.nz Manapouri Lakeview Motor Inn 68 Cathedral Drive, 03 249 6652, manapouri.co.nz Possum Lodge 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

Milford Wanderer Cruises Day and overnight options with kayaking, etc. Coach connections, 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz

The southernmost city in New Zealand, Invercargill is a farmingorientated community with a pleasant collection of parks and museums to keep you busy.

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

Invercargill I-site Visitors Centre 108 Gala St, 03 214 6243

TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Farm tours, barbecue lunches, horse treks and cycling.

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wildlife encounters. Farmstay options are available, 0800 304333, catlinscoaster.co.nz

STEWART ISLAND Stewart Island Flights Flights to Stewart Island, 03 218 9129, stewartislandflights.co.nz Bunkers Backpackers (BBH) 13 Argyle St, Halfmoon Bay, Stweart Island, 027 738 1796 bunkersbackpackers.co.nz

INVERCARG STAY

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CATLINS STAY Wrights Mill Lodge 865 Tahakopa Valley, 03 204 8424 Lazy Dolphin 529 Curio Bay Rd, 03 246 8579. lazydolphinlodge.co.nz Cedar Tree Lodge (BBH) 36 Hosptial Road, 027 611 7932. goldbox.catering@gmail.com Happy Inn Backpackers (BBH) 11 Shakespeare St, 03 417 4161. happyinn@clear.net.nz

Southern Comfort (BBH) 30 Thompson St, 03 218 3838 bbh.co.nz

Fernlea Backpackers (VIP) Moana St, Kaka Point, 03 412 8834

Tuatara Backpacker Lodge 30 Dee St, 03 214 0956, tuataralodge.co.nz

The Split Level (BBH) 9 Waikawa Rd, Owaka, 03 415 8304, thesplitlevel.co.nz

SOUTH SCENIC The beautiful road west of Invercargill towards Fiordland is known as the Southern Scenic Route.

Surat Bay Lodge (BBH) Surat Bay Rd, New Haven, 03 415 8099, suratbay.co.nz

Pepper Tree Hostel 121 Grey St, Palmerston, 06 335 4054, peppertreehostel.co.nz

Penguin Paradise Holiday Lodge (BBH) 612 Waikawa-Niagara Rd, Waikawa Village South Catlins, 03 2468 552, catlins-surf.co.nz/736.html

Grandma’s Place 146 Grey St, Palmerston North, 06 358 6928, grandmas-place.co.nz

Thomas Catlins Lodge & Holiday Park, 8 Clark St, Owaka 03 415 8333, thomascatlins.co.nz

The Globe Backpackers (VIP) 144 Palmerston St, Riverton, 03 234 8527, globebackpackers@xtra.co.nz

Wright’s Mill Lodge 865 Tahakopa Valley Rd, 03 204 8424 catlinsaccommodation.co.nz

Harbison Backpackers 5 Harbison St, Otautau, 03 225 8715, michdale@xtra.co.nz Shooters Backpackers (BBH) 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.

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.

Dept of Conservation Office Don St, 03 214 4589

Catlins Community Info Centre 3 Main Rd, Owaka, South Otago, 03 415 8371, catlins.org.nz

Catlins Coaster Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins with many stops to the main natural attractions and

Elm Lodge Wildlife Tours Two-day camping trips, 0800 356 563, elmwildlifetours.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 Chalet Backpackers (BBH) 296 High St, 03 479 2075 chaletbackpackers.co.nz Dunedin Central Backpackers (BBH) 243 Moray Pl, 03 477 9985, centralbackpackers.co.nz Pavlova Palace (BBH) 74 Elm Row, 03 477 34728 pavlovapalace.co.nz Hogwartz (BBH)

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277 Rattray St, 03 474 1487, hogwartz.co.nz Kiwis Nest (BBH) 597 George St, 03 471 9540, kiwisnest.co.nz Leviathan Hotel 27 Queens Gardens, 0800 773 773, dunedinhotel.co.nz Manor House 28 Manor Place, 03 477 0484, manorhousebackpackers.co.nz On Top Backpackers (BBH) 12 Filleul St, cnr Moray Pl, 03 477 6121, ontopbackpackers.co.nz Pennys Backpackers (BBH) 6 Stafford St, 03 477 6027, pennys.co.nz Next Stop Backpackers 2 View St, 03 477 0477, nextstop.co.nz YHA Dunedin, Stafford Gables 71 Stafford St, 03 474 1919, yha.co.nz

DUNEDIN DO Baldwin Street In the Guinness Book of Records as the steepest street in the world.

Cadbury World 280 Cumberland St, 0800 223 2879, cadbury.co.nz Cosmic Corner Funk Store Check out the legal highs and chat to the staff about where to go for parties, events and the beautiful parts of New Zealand.

355 George St, 03 479 2949 Dunedin Public Art Gallery 30 The Octagon, 03 474 3240, dpagmail@dcc.govt.nz Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony View blue penguins just metres away every evening at dusk.

Waterfront Rd, 1-1/2 hrs north of Dunedin, 03 433 1195, penguins.co.nz Parachute Experience Skydiving from a great height 03 489 4113, dropzone.com Sinclair Wetlands and Educational Centre Freedom or conducted walks over 5km of walkways.

Backpacker and camping facilities. Rapid no 854 Clarendon/Berwick Rd

(signposted on SH1 30km south of Dunedin), 03 486 2654 Speights Brewery Heritage Tours 03 477 7697 speights.co.nz Royal Albatross Centre 03 478 0499, albatross.org.nz

OTAGO PENINSULA 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) 423 Aramoana Rd, Port Chalmers, 03 472 8323, billybrowns.co.nz McFarmers Backpackers 774 Portobello Rd, Portobello, 02 5206 0640, mcfarmers@xtra.co.nz Pinot Lodge (BBH) 102 Barry Avenue, Cromwell, Fiordland 03 445 1260, pinotlodgenz.com

OTAGO DO Historic Fort Taiaroa An underground complex built

in the 1880s, this fortified stronghold has been inhabited since earliest Maori settlement of the area. Tours available at the Visitor Centre. Fletcher House, Broad Bay, 03 478 0180

ROXBURGH Villa Rose Backpackers 79 Scotland St, 03 446 8761, villarose.co.nz

Larnach Castle Australasia’s only castle. The architecture is amazing and the intricate details (including a foyer ceiling that took nearly seven years to build) are breathtaking.

NZ Marine Studies Centre and Aquarium Run by the University of Otago, the Portobello Aquarium and Marine Biology Centre (near Quarantine Point) is a refuge for a diverse collection of fish and reptile life. 03 479 5826 Elm Wildlife Tours 0800 356 563, elmwildlifetours.co.nz

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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

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 Ahuriri Backpackers (BBH) 5 Clay Cliffs Lane 03 438 9451 ahuririmotels.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 Lodge (BBH) 468 Beach Rd, 03 434 8115, 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, swaggersbackpackers.co.nz

Photo: Franz Josef Glacier Guides

MOERAKI Just 30km south of Oamaru lies a remarkable collection of eerie giant boulders.

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER GUIDES - 2015 GOLDEN BACKPACK WINNERS BEST VISITOR ATTRACTION A 12km-long glacier located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on New Zealand’s South Island, Franz Josef allows travellers to experience a dynamic glacial environment, all within walking distance from the main highway.s

franzjosefglacier.com

Riverside Haven (BBH) 2328 SH1, Waianakarua, 03 439 5830, olivebranch.co.nz The Dubliner 105 Tiverton St, Palmerston, 03 465 8123

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The high life: the lost city pierces the clouds at 2430m

Machu Picchu

A mule on the Salkantay Trail 86

Taking a breather surrounded by the peaks of the Andes

Photos: Andrew Westbrook, Thinkstock

PERU

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The high road Forget the Inca Trail. Hike to Machu Picchu along the higher, more beautiful and less touristy Salkantay Trail WORDS ANDREW WESTBROOK

The alarm sounds like a klaxon just after 4am and I rise, zombie-like from my slumber. Within minutes we’re grouped outside, with walking sticks in hands, yawns on faces and torches glaring from foreheads, like a forlorn squad of sentinels scanning the Peruvian streets. The last of my group of 20 and 30-something Europeans and North Americans stumbles out to join us and off we hike, into the pre-dawn mist that swirls through the town of Agua Calientes.

We’re soon beyond the buildings and at the base of the Inca Steps. Above us lies Machu Picchu – lost city, world wonder, ultimate bucket list tick-off. It’s above us, however, by 400 metres, a distance we must now cross by climbing near-vertical centuries old steps in the pitch dark.

I’m suddenly not so sure why I opted for this punishing alternative to the lie-in and bus. However, we push on, joining the line of figures panting and heaving as we rise in the dark, like ghostly silhouettes against the cloud-shrouded mountain.

Up we climb, leg burning step after step, leaving the town hundreds of metres below. The morning light begins to seep through, leaving perfect circles of clouds around the surrounding peaks as if they’re intergalactic rings in our Inca universe. The higher we ascend, the more distant a memory our 4am klaxon becomes.

Picchu. Typically disorganised and unaware of the permit system, I’d been unable to secure myself a place on the official Inca Tail, the much-touted must-do of any extended South American adventure.

I had, however, managed to join an expedition along the lesser-known alternative Inca route, the Salkantay. As it turned out, I’d be praising my disorganisation more and more with every passing day.

After the first of our pre-dawn meets, we start by driving to the town of Mollepata for breakfast and to meet the team, who include our two horsemen, three chefs and two local guides, Cesar and Simba. It’s then time to start walking.

With condors flying overhead, we’ve barely begun when Simba calls us to a halt for what is to become a regular ritual – the distribution of coca leaves. An age-old tradition throughout the indigenous Andean regions of Bolivia and Peru, the chewing of coca leaves isn’t about the narcotic buzz, which many assume.

Indeed, while the leaves are what cocaine is derived from, locals would argue they’re as different as heroin and poppies. While some might experience a slight numbing of the mouth, the main result is to soften the side effects of altitude sickness, especially headaches and dodgy bellies. ››

Photos: Andrew Westbrook, Thinkstock

The gates of time It’s almost an hour later that we pass the final step and stagger out of the jungle, wild-eyed and drenched in sweat.

We’re met by the bemused looks of the fresh-faced and clean clothed tourists just stepping off the first buses of the day, with whom we now join the queue, eagerly awaiting the 6am opening time.

The clock eventually chimes and in we excitedly stagger, slightly delirious to finally be entering the lost city, this ancient testament to the incredible extent of just what the human race can achieve. After four days of tough trekking, months of planning and years of dreaming, it’s one of those travel moments I’m unlikely to forget.

Our five-day trek along the Salkantay Trail had begun in Cusco, the beautiful, wild-at-heart gateway city to Machu

Our Andy poses in Salkantay’s shadow TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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And indeed, altitude sickness is a very real concern, considering we’re already at just under 3000m and will be heading up to around 4650m within 24 hours. To put that in perspective, Australia’s highest peak, Mt Kosciuszko, measures in at a lowly 2238m.

Altitude with attitude And so, cheeks bulging with foul-smelling green leaves the American government (if not Coca Cola) would rather see burned in the fields, we head off towards the glacier peak of Mount Salkantay.

We walk uphill until lunch, when we reach our first camp at Sayllapata, dump our bags and take a detour up to a glacial lake. The sudden off-piste climb is seriously hardgoing which, with the altitude, demands regular breaks.

Two of the seemingly-seasoned German hikers in our group call it a day and turn back for camp, struggling to breathe.

I’m more fortunate, having spent more time than the rest getting used to the Andean altitude, and so press on. But it still feels like I’ve aged 30 years, and I’m forced to stop every minute or so to catch my breath. The result, however, could not be more worth it.

Clambering over the final crest, now comfortably above 4000m, we collapse amongst the grass and wild flowers to sit in silent awe. The ice of Salkantay looms more than 6200m high behind us, but in front sits a glacial lake of breathtaking beauty, its waters tantalisingly turquoise as the last slivers of the sun dip behind the range. Better yet, we’ve got it to ourselves having not seen another tourist since setting off. There’s no need for a 500-a-day limit on the little-known Salkantay.

A surprisingly slap-up dinner and a fitful night’s sleep later and we’re back in our boots, shivering in the now familiar pre-dawn mist, as we set off in search of the trail’s highest pass. Upwards we zig zag, the group splintering as the unlucky dip of altitude sickness strikes some worse than others. The temperature gradually rises with the sun, but so does the difficulty in breathing as we all enter our own little worlds. Watching my feet, chewing my leaves, I push on, absent-mindedly humming my way through the theme tunes to Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings, so epic and superlative are the landscapes surrounding us.

At one point I approach another tour group, the first we’ve encountered. They’ve opted to do the trek on horseback and are currently stood still, taking a breather.

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But a cow suddenly darts onto the path, spooking one of their animals. The horse rears up, spilling its female rider, before stumbling over the edge of the switchback path.

Back in the saddle Gobsmacked, I stand transfixed for a moment, watching the horse roll down the mountain towards me. I dive out of its way, but luckily needn’t have worried. The horse rights itself immediately and calmly on hitting my section of the path – all in a day’s work, it seems. The girl is less fortunate. She’s hurt her hand, possibly broken it, and is faced with a stark choice in the middle of nowhere. As I move on past, I’m impressed to see she goes for the pain and glory option.

A few hours later and we all reconvene at the top of the pass. Stood at 4650m, the winds are all-powerful. Either side of us the huge mountains of Salkantay and Humantay dominate our views, as Simba leads us in reenacting an ancient Inca ceremony, building small towers of stones and leaving offerings of our finest snacks and coca leaves for the gods. It’s no place to hang around, however, so onwards we move, taking the long knee-crunching way back down into the cloud forest, the insects and our next campsite.

It’s barely eight by the time we’ve already devoured a massive dinner and crawled into our sleeping bags under the shade of the mountains.

Now firmly into the rhythm, and with the hardest miles behind us, the next two days fly by. We journey through the valleys of the Santa Teresa River, gawping at the plentiful

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Finally looking down on Machu Picchu

Paul Sarfati

The Insider's guide Paul Sarfati is CHO (that’s chief happiness officer) of Bamba Experience, who run several guided treks to Machu Picchu, plus own top Cusco hostel Milhouse.

What makes Machu Picchu so special?

The amazing location of where it stands, plus the landscape and nature surrounding the archeological site is breathtaking.

waterfalls and tropical fruit, before soaking our aching muscles in one of the glorious hot springs. It’s then the hot and dusty walk around a giant hydroelectric power station before joining the railway line, for the final, winding hike along the river to Agua Calientes and back to the world of mass tourism.

And so, after the icey peaks and early mornings, the rolling horses and old man lungs, we finally step inside Machu Picchu. Wispy fog pours over the grassy terraces, while temples and iconic views fill every direction.

The images, so familiar from 1000 postcards and documentaries, are almost hard to believe at times, as we look down at the dot of the bridge where we’d begun our climb earlier in the morning.

Machu Picchu deserves its reputation, of that there’s no doubt. Built on top of a mountain around 1450 as a sort or royal retreat, it remains in excellent condition thanks to never having been found by plundering Spanish conquistadores – an unsurprising fact, given its absolutely insane location. Travel is often all about destinations, while it’s the journey, others will swear, that is the real joy. Well, the Salkantay to Machu Picchu hike enjoys a rare claim – both the journey and the destination are as spell-binding as you’re likely to experience. ❚ The five-day Salkantay Trek costs from $645 with Bamba Experience bambaexperience.com; Beds at Milhouse Cusco cost from $10pn milhousehostel.com

When is the best time of year to visit?

You can visit year round, but best would be winter, between May and September. That’s when the sky is clear and you get very beautiful, sunny days. The rainy season starts in December and ends in March (so is probably the worst time to visit), but is still amazing.

How early do you need to book the Inca Trail?

As early as possible. There are only 500 permits available each day, but that includes porters and guides, so it’s more like 300 permits for tourists. At times you need to pre-book around five to six months in advance. Permits are not transferable or refundable so there is no way to get one once they’re sold out.

What are the Inca Trail alternatives?

The Salkantay offers a high altitude trek with the most amazing views of the mountains. It’s the most challenging hike but you get to walk very close to the glaciers. The Jungle Trek is the second alternative which offers the possibility of low altitude mountain biking, rafting, hot springs and zip-lining to reach Machu Picchu. The Lares Trek is another very nice high altitude trek on the other side of the mountains.

This one is also great because you get to interact with the local communities and see their way of life.

Any tips for avoiding altitude sickness?

We recommend spending two days in Cusco before starting your trek. We also recommend drinking around three litres of water each day, plus coca tea.

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Take your pick Want to stay Down Under a bit longer? If you do a stint of field work a visa extension will be the tasty fruit of your labour If you’re looking to get a 12-month extension on your Working Holiday Visa then you are in luck, the Australian government wants you to stay. But in return you must complete 88 days of work in what it calls a “specific industry in regional Australia”.

Fruit picking is a great way of meeting that requirement and on assignment you’ll be housed, fed and watered for free. Here’s where to go...

Shepparton – Victoria Shepparton is the hub of the thriving Goulbourn Valley. When you’re not picking fruit, explore the forest tracks, hit a round of golf, or for the road-trip enthusiast, Shepparton is ideally located only a couple of hours’ drive from buzzing Melbourne or you could even head up to the Snowy Mountains.

Jan-Mar: Stonefruits Jan-May: Tomatoes Mar-May: Apples Apr-Oct: Tree pruning Nov-Dec: Cherries Dec: Apricots

The Riverland – South Australia Riverland, located on the mighty Murray River, is a large agricultural region well known for its orchards and vineyards. If you can still muster the energy after a hard day slogging it in the orchard, make the most of the Riverland’s natural adventure playground. Hire a boat or jet ski and test your water sport prowess, enjoy a spot of fishing or camp on the banks of the Murray.

Jan-Apr: Apples, pears and grapes May-Feb: Citrus fruits May-Aug: Vine pruning Oct-Mar: Oranges and stone fruits

Huonville – Tasmania Almost a fifth of Australia’s apples 90

are grown and harvested in Tasmania.

While sometimes overlooked, the lone state is arguably the most serene and picturesque of all. On a well-earned day off, take a hike through the valley, visit the Cygnet Art Gallery, or stick to the theme by visiting the local Apple Museum. Yep. Apple. Museum.

Jan-Feb: Apricots Mar-Apr: Grapes Mar-May: Apples Dec-Feb: Cherries Dec-May: Strawberries

Margaret River region – Western Australia This beautiful, relaxed beachside region is a popular tourist destination for folks chasing the sun. Home to more than 130 wineries, you’ll never be short of finding vineyard employment. If you can tear yourself away from the wine, head to the coast and learn to surf, or simply relax and top up the tan.

Feb-Apr: Grape picking June-Aug: Vine pruning

Bundaberg – Queensland Bundaberg is one of Australia’s major seasonal work destinations, absolutely jam packed full of harvest workers, travellers, fruit pickers and backpackers.

Bundy is the place to meet plenty of people with whom to split a bottle of rum and, it has loads of opportunities for your leisure time including fishing, cycling, golfing, kayaking, camping, surfing and, of course, visiting the Bundaberg Rum Distillery.

Jan-Dec: Sweet potatoes Feb-Sep: Avocados Mar-Jul: Citrus fruit May-Apr & Oct-Nov: Beans Apr-Aug & Oct-Dec: Capsicum Apr-Jun & Oct-Nov: Cucumbers Apr-Aug & Oct-Dec: Tomatoes May-Jul & Oct-Dec: Pumpkins Aug-Nov: Cherry tomatoes Aug-Sep: Strawberries Dec-Feb: Mangoes For jobs, check out jobsearch.gov.au/ harvesttrail or fruitpickingjobs.com.au

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Just crystal clear water between you and them, no cage, no aquarium... an adrenaline rush experience.

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