Go Travel New Zealand Winter 2017

GO TRAVEL NEW ZEALAND WINTER 2017

Queenstown

Winterfest Winter Edition 2017 NZ 9.90 EUR 7.50 USA 12.50 AUS 9.90 INR 450 www.gotravelnewzealand.com

Celebrating winter like only Queenstown can

Fine Dining A taste of two worlds

World's best at Winter Games

Cruises in Fiordland

Award winning restaurant Rata

World's best converge on Central Otago

The beauty of Milford Sound

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

Josh & Fleur:

The rise of Rata & the Madam Woo Duo

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The Dux has been a Christchurch icon since 1978, welcoming locals and visitors alike to our unique brand of hospitality to venues that somehow make you suddenly feel right at home.

Located a short walk from town through Hagley Park, Dux Dine is our award winning pescatarian restaurant, serving locally sourced and lovingly prepared seafood and vegetarian fare.

Our menus reflect our desire to serve customers meals to nourish, sustain and excite with food that enriches our bodies, minds and souls.

Dux Dine - 28 Riccarton Road

(03) 348-1436 | manager@duxdine.co.nz | www.duxdine.co.nz

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Whether you are new to The Dux Family or have fond memories of long afternoons at the old place, you are going to feel instantly at home in our stunning outdoor area.

This two level courtyard is fully covered and heated and those great big globe lights are the perfect backdrop for dusk-lit selfies!

Dux Central offers a four-bar hospitality hub in the heart of the rebirth of the city and offers something for everyone. Our Brew Bar offers over 200 bottle craft beers and 12 tap options, and smacks of a London pub-only we serve our beer cold!

Our passion for wine is expressed in The Emerald Room, which has been perfectly described as “high end, intimate and slick”. This intimate, opulent and elegant space brings the “deluxe” to Dux Central with its plush green velvet furnishings, gold accents and mood lighting.

It is the ideal space for a catch up with friends.

Dux Central - 144 Lichfield Street

(03) 366-6919 | manager@duxcentral.co.nz | www.duxcentral.co.nz

Experience the wonder of Milford Sound by the air and truly appreciate how the land was formed during ancient times. Treat yourself to one of the most breathtaking scenic flights around - an experience you will never forget!

Queen's Birthday Weekend 2018

Queenstown, NZ

LUMA Southern Light Project is an award winning arts and culture festival in Queenstown, NZ and takes place on Queen's Birthday Weekend (June 1st to June 4th 2018). LUMA is a free public event showcasing a curated collection of stunning light sculptures and installations with a focus on transformation of space, public interaction, music, art, culture and education.

For more information go to www.luma.nz

s O U T H

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Destinations this issue: Fiordland

Nelson & Tasman

Page 40 Abel Tasman National Park

Queenstown

Page 32

Picton

Nelson Blenheim Westport

Wanaka

Page 44

Westland

Marlborough Nelson Lakes National Park

Greymouth

Kaikoura Hanmer Springs

Hokitika Arthur’s Pass National Park

Canterbury

Tasman Sea Mt. Cook

Christchurch

Franz Josef Glacier

Akaroa Tekapo

Pacific Ocean

Timaru Milford Sound

Fiordland

Mackenzie & Waitaki

Wanaka

Queenstown

Oamaru Moeraki

Te Anau

Otago

Fiordland National Park

Dunedin

Dunedin

Page 46

Gore Invercargill Bluff Oban Stewart Island

Southland

Kaikoura

Page 48 Nelson & Marlborough

Page 54

New Zealand’s premier Lord of the Rings tour company

JOIN US ON A PILGRIMAGE THROUGH MIDDLE EARTH People all over the world dream about coming to Middle Earth. Red Carpet Tours can take you into that dream and make it a reality for you. Walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters through the lush green pastures of the shire, the ancient forests of a lost world and into the twisted lava and ash ďŹ elds of the black lands.

You will come as strangers to this distant magical land and part as a fellowship of companions who have shared a life-changing experience, exploring the length and breadth of the country that has become Middle Earth.

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+64 9 410 6561 +64 21 964 398 info@redcarpet-tours.com www.redcarpet-tours.com

N O R T H

I s l a N D

Destinations this issue: KÄ piti piti Coast

Northland

Page 56

Kaitaia

Eastland

Page 62

Whangarei

Great Barrier Island

Auckland

Whanganui

Page 66

Coromandel Forest Park

Auckland Pukekohe

Coromandel

Page 68

Thames

Bay of Plenty Tauranga

Hamilton

Tasman Sea

Whakatane

Waikato

Rotorua

Eastland

Pureroa Forest Park

Waikato

Page 72

New Plymouth

Page 73

Mt. Ruapehu

Whanganui National Park

Hawke’s Bay

Hastings

Manawatu

Dannevirke

Auckland

Page 74

Kapiti Island

Wellington Wellington Northland

Cook Strait

Napier

Pacific Ocean

Whanganui Palmerston North

Page 80

Gisborne

Taupo

Taumarunui

Mt. Taranaki

Bay of Plenty

Te Urewera

C O N T E N T S

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NZ DINING

QUEENSTOWN

FIORDLAND

We talk fine dining with the internationally renowned Josh Emett & Fleur Caulton

Parties, music, comedy, family fun and mountain madness

Natural wonder abounds in the remote south

26 WINTER GAMES

44 WANAKA

32 DESTINATION QUEENSTOWN

46 DUNEDIN

Publisher James Lynch Content Manager Eimear Mc Keever content@waterfordpress.co.nz +64 (0) 3 983 5510 Sub-editor Paul Mein

Administration Helen Bourne, Jill Holland accounts@waterfordpress.co.nz +64 (0) 3 983 5500

New Zealand Head Office 112 Wrights Road, Christchurch +64 (0) 3 983 5500

Operations Manager Scott Homer scott@waterfordpress.co.nz

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Queenstown Office 70 Glenda Drive, Queenstown +64 (0) 3 983 5519

Region Specialists Alasdair Thomson, Adam Brinkley, Adam Shirra, Andrew Stafford, Chris Pearce, Matt Harris content@waterfordpress.co.nz

Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

LAKE WAKATIPU, QUEENSTOWN

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K AIKOURA

EASTLAND

AUCKLAND

Kaikoura is a whale watcher's paradise

First in the world to see the sunrise

Discover NZ's maritime history

54 NELSON & MARLBOROUGH

66 WHANGANUI

72 WAIKATO

56 KAPITI COAST

68 COROMANDEL

73 BAY OF PLENTY

Cover image courtesy of: Nick Hyne - www.diariesdownunder.com Rider: Mahi Mains

Published by Waterford Press ISSN 2357-2183 Print ISSN 2357-2191 Online Designers Connor Gosnell, Anton Gray

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A Taste of

TWO WORLDS Award-winning restaurant Rata is owned and operated by internationally recognised Michelin starred chef Josh Emett, and highly regarded local restaurateur Fleur Caulton. Rata opened in Queenstown in 2012 and has just celebrated its fifth birthday. The duo also manage their 'Madam Woo' chain of restaurants, bringing their take on Chinese and Malaysian street food to New Zealand.

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

Josh and Fleur talk to GO TRAVEL about their backgrounds and approach to food and how the restaurants evolved.

The concept was simple; an intimate yet relaxed dining experience that focuses on great service. A restaurant that showcases the region not only with a locally sourced menu but also with a décor that uses natural wood, stone and native bush accents.

GT: Rata has just celebrated five years in business.

Where did the concept for the restaurant come from, and how are you celebrating?

GT: Where do you see the brands and the business going from here?

Fleur: We are in growth mode and are very excited about the future of our business.

GT: Having both worked overseas, would you consider taking the restaurants internationally?

Josh: I definitely would. I spent 20 years away working in London, New York and Melbourne and would love the challenge of being back in those markets someday.

Fleur: We brought Josh out from New York to do a lunch at Amisfield Winery, which I was CEO of at the time. We kept in touch afterwards and I was very keen to go back to working for myself and he was keen to come back to New Zealand in some capacity. Hence Rata came to fruition.

Josh: We celebrated our five years by having a private dinner in Rata for all our staff. We had it catered, of course, so everybody could take the night off.

GT: How would you describe Rata’s cuisine?

Josh: Our menu is seasonal and is predominantly focused on locally sourced ingredients. I don’t like to overwork ingredients and use classic techniques to create delicious dishes.

GT: Do you intend to open more Rata-themed restaurants, or is Rata unique to Queenstown?

Josh/Fleur: Not at this stage. Rata is unique to the surrounding area—if we opened in another location we would focus more on that area and create something unique.

GT: There are now five Madam Woos in New Zealand.

How did the Madam Woo brand begin and evolve?

Josh/Fleur:We opened with the idea to create a fun and bustling Malaysian restaurant that reflected the cultural diversity of the street food and hawker markets we had experienced when we visited. The food we cook focuses on the Malaysian classics and we do best possible versions of them as well as creating our own versions such as the pork hawker roll, which is our best selling dish.

GT: How did this experience help you develop the Mayfare Group business?

Fleur: I had my own hospitality business for nine years from 21 and then was CEO of a well known wine company for the following nine years. These experiences gave me both sides of the business spectrum to develop Mayfare Group to where it is today—owner operator with a corporate structure.

GT: What dishes would you recommend at Rata and also Madam Woo?

GT: What are the main challenges of running multiple restaurants in different cities?

Josh: At Rata to start I would order the Southland cheese roll with honeycomb and pickled swede; for the main the roasted duck with preserved otago plums and smoked kumara puree.

Josh/Fleur: There are many challenges. Initially it felt hard not being able to oversee every dish, at every site, every day but we have made this work by having the right teams and management structure in place and we have to be good communicators. We ensure that Madam Woo remains simple—great food and great service. We love to see our regulars who come back time and time again and the reaction of people who are first timers and can’t decide on what to eat.

Fleur: My favourites at Madam Woo are the mushroom spring rolls and the Char Kway Teow, both interesting and so delicious—a must try for anyone who visits. At Rata the menu changes regularly to suit the seasons and the produce available. I love eating off the bites and starter menus as it allows me to sample lots of the different flavours. Rata uses such amazing produce from around the south Island you cannot go wrong with anything off either menu.

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Fleur on Fleurs Place Fleur is someone I met very early on in my career and she is an inspiration. The person she is, her philosophy on food and the businesses she has had over the years have always been favourites. Clearly she also has my name!

Fleurs Place

for naturally good food

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GT: Josh, What are your earliest memories of cooking?

Josh: Mostly baking. I made a huge amount of cakes growing up, the first being a chocolate caramel slice.

GT: You spent about 20 years overseas. Where did you work and what were your main reasons for returning to New Zealand?

Fresh fish from the Moeraki boats.

Phone us to reserve your table, best to book.

Restaurant & Bar open Wednesday to Sunday.

A variety of accommodation in the village, stay overnight & enjoy the night skies, sunset and sunrise of Moeraki.

Breakfast from 10 am Lunch & dinner.

169 Haven Street, Moeraki, Otago +64 3 439 4480 Fax +64 3 439 4481 mail@fleursplace.com www.fleursplace.com

Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

Josh: I spent almost 12 years in london, four in Melbourne and four in New York, the majority of that was spent with Gordon Ramsay. I returned to NZ because I wanted to open a restaurant here which ending up being Rata. I had started to spend more time in New Zealand when I was filming Masterchef NZ, so through spending more and more time here I gradually realised it was time to return home.

GT: What was it like working for Gordon Ramsay? Was he as intimidating as portrayed on TV? Josh: I had an amazing 11 years with Gordon with some incredible opportunities. The kitchen environment was full on but that is what Michelin star kitchens are like and I loved every moment of it.

GT: I believe you helped Gordon set up restaurants in America and Australia. What were the highs and lows of these experiences?

Josh: I think there are always tough times when opening restaurants.

It is not an easy thing to do and takes a huge amount of focus and time. New york was an amazing experience given that NY had such an amazing restaurant scene. I liked the challenges of accommodating different palates and learning about new ingredients, building relationships with suppliers and hiring great staff that I could also learn from. Everyday had a challenge but was hugely exciting.

GT: Did you enjoy working on Masterchef NZ and what was your favourite aspect?

Josh: I loved the five seasons of Masterchef NZ I filmed, especially meeting contestants from all walks of life—great kiwis—seeing what impressive skills these home cooks had developed and getting to

Josh on Esplanade I have been here a few times over the last few years since we opened Madam Woo in Dunedin. The location is great as I usually take time to go down to St Clair, get some fresh air and perhaps go for a walk on the beach to clear my head. The restaurant has a great casual vibe to it and an Italian focused menu, so think delicious bruschetta, clams, or arancini to start then into great pasta dishes. They do a great parpadelle with braised lamb shoulder. If you are travelling with kids in town, they do a fantastic pizza as well.

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Italian inspired beachside dining in St Clair, Dunedin - Wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta and small plates.

No reservations - enjoy the wait in our bar overlooking the beach www.esplanade.co – (+64) 3 456 2544 – 9am-late, weekdays / 8.30am-late, weekends

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taste some truly outstanding dishes.

GT: What advice would you give to aspiring chefs to succeed in the industry?

Josh: Get into a good kitchen and do your time. There are no shortcuts to learning the right skills and techniques.

GT: We hear that you are quite outdoorsy Fleur. What are your favourite activities and places in New Zealand?

Fleur: I moved to Queenstown 25 years ago to live the life I love and that includes many outdoor sports. There isn’t a day goes by that I am not out doing something. My main sports are skiing, hiking, mountain biking and waterskiing.

GT: What are your favourite things to cook at home?

Josh: Helen is an amazing cook and does most of the cooking. We generally eat as healthy as possible. But I also do a lot of baking for the kids because we enjoy it and of course they love the treats.

Fleur: I love to cook so at home anything goes. I am really good at fridge food. My mum was an amazing cook and I have spent my life around good chefs so a few of those good skills have rubbed off on me. We entertain quite regularly and I love cooking ethnic food. I like the meal to have a direction if I am cooking for a few , so usually from a country we have visited and from which I have absorbed all the flavours. In the last five years since Rata has opened it has been Moroccan, Turkish, Spanish, Indian and I always love to cook good Italian for a crowd!

Fleur on Francesca's It is hard to get really good simple Italian in New Zealand and Francesca's does just that—simple, delicious, not over complicated and somewhere you can go any day any time and enjoy the food.

Enjoy the exciting flavours, aromas and hospitality of Italy 03 443 5599 93 Ardmore St, Wanaka www.fransitalian.co.nz fikmanager@gmail.com

Queens Wharf

04 499 9069 | www.shed5.co.nz

Shed 5 seats up to 180 guests a la carte but can cater for up to 220 people table d’hôte. For smaller groups of up to 60 people the Private Dining Room appeals to many people who want the privacy and one to one service for a special occasion, confidential dinner or staff party. Shed 5 offers two set menus to choose from for groups of over 15 people.

Shed 5 restaurant and bar is a stunning waterfront location on the Wellington Harbour with rustic finishings, great charm and character and an emphasis on great food and excellent unobtrusive service.

The venue offers an outside patio area, an intimate bar as well as an intimate dining room and to finish off a private dining room. All these areas can be treated as separate entities yet as well as harmonise into one.

It is a building to suit all occasions.

The Crab Shack is a coastal/Cape Cod themed casual dining and drinking experience. Specialising in seafood with a special emphasis on crab yet including other fabulous meals. "By the Scoop", “Shack boards” are all included on our menu.

The Crab Shack provides fun, smiles and frivolity in a casual yet entertaining environment. Affordable is an understatement, check out our daily deals today!

Opening hours: 11:30am to late - 7 days!

Queens Wharf │ 04 916 4250 │ www.crabshack.co.nz

Pravda translates to mean “The Truth”. And nothing could be more honest about Wellington's coffee culture than this cafe, bar and bistro.

Set in the heart of the city amongst the hustle and bustle of share traders, commuters and visitors to the Lambton shopping precinct, Pravda is located in an elegant building with towering vaulted ceilings and hanging chandeliers of crystal.

The menu includes classic European dishes as you would expect of a busy modern bistro.

Pravda is home to Wellington's Immigrant's Son Coffee brand.

Pravda combines the simplicity of an Italian café with marble topped tables and warming tones of dark wood panelling in

the bar where Lenin’s bust watches over proceedings, to the relaxed informal dining of its banquette dining room.

Pravda is set amongst the sights and sounds of a capital city but still providing some respite from the intrusions of modern world with the charm of a bygone era.

Pravda as the name implies offers the honest simplicity of bistro food, freshly roasted coffee, wines of the world and the welcome of an old friend.

107 Customhouse Quay, Wellington CBD P. 04 8018858 E. info@pravdacafe.co.nz www.facebook.com/pravda

www.pravdacafe.co.nz

W I N T E R F ES T

Welcome to Winterfest The Queenstown Winter Festival celebrates the start of winter like only Queenstown can, with street parties, music, comedy, family fun and madness up the mountain

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

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W I N T E R F E S T

BE PART OF THE

SCE NE RY

DID YOU Enjoy un-obstructed views from your private villa.

Whether you are after the thrill of an adrenaline rush or the tranquility of nature, complemented by personalised service, luxury and privacy – Azur is the choice.

www.azur.co.nz

KNOW

With a population of only 14,300, Queenstown's beautiful scenery and vibrant culture make it a popular destination for holidaymakers from within New Zealand or abroad. The town sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand's longest freshwater lake.

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Q U E E N S TOW N — N E W ZE A L A N D

Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

T

he winter season in Queenstown is synonymous to those in the know with buzz and energy. The buzz is no more keenly felt than in the weeks leading up to the region’s ski field’s tantalizing announcements of opening dates as the surrounding mountains get their first coats of icing sugar like snow. Locals pull their snow gear out from storage, snow lovers from everywhere compulsively follow snow reports and the ‘will it be the best season ever’ conversations in local cafes tease everyone into a state of anticipation.

Meanwhile a team of locals and volunteers work like Santa’s elves, ignoring the call of the annual rituals to put the final touches on Queenstown’s annual start of winter celebration, the Queenstown Winter Festival. Since 1975 the Festival has been the kooky, cool and crazy pressure valve that releases the build-up and lets the world know that ‘winter starts here, so come on down and join the party’.

The Queenstown Winter Festival is New Zealand's - and some suggest the southern hemisphere’s - biggest celebration of winter. Held over four days in late June, more than 45,000 people converge on Queenstown at venues from the lake shore to the mountain tops. Nothing is too crazy and no superlatives are left untested. The Festival puts up its marquee over a broad collection of events that include live music, competitive mountain exploits, comedy, fireworks, culinary creativeness, and polar lake plunging.

book online

www.heliglenorchy.co.nz call us

0800 HELI GY (4354 49) +64 3 442 9971 (Intl.) email us

info@heliglenorchy.co.nz visit us

Mull Street, Glenorchy NZ follow us

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While the Festival today is marked on calendars globally, four decades ago its beginnings were far more low key. In 1975 a couple of Kiwi blokes were sipping a beer in Eichardt’s pub and decided the small town of just 5,000 residents should throw a bit of a party for the locals and skiers. A committee of keen tourism operators and the whole town got behind the idea, coming up with entertainment and events. It was a real team effort and the ideas couldn’t have been wackier, but the locals embraced it and the Queenstown Winter Festival was born.

It was originally just a winter carnival and a chance for the locals to have some fun in winter when the town was quieter. Back then serious snow didn’t arrive until late July/early August and this was the distant time before snowmaking (introduced in 1991) brought the ski season forward to early July, then June. In the late ‘70s and early ‘80s Queenstown was a small village and operators would have come through April, May and June on very lean business.

Jetboat and rafting companies were off the water and many motels closed for that off-season.

Some of the early events are now stuff of legend. A handful of those original events, like the Dog Derby and Day on the Bay with its hilarious Birdman Contest, are now enduring Festival favourites.

In particular, the Dog Derby is loved by festival lovers nationally and internationally. It’s an infamous day out for high country farmers and their normally obedient working dogs which in more recent years has allowed ‘townies’ and their canine buddies to join in. Each numbered, bib-clad pair must run, slip or slide their way to the bottom of Coronet Peak through the chaos of whistles and barking, crossing the finish line together.

Ordering in advance is recommended

Call 0800 NZ LAMB

17b Papanui Road, Christchurch Ph. 03 387 0707 47 Gorge Road, Queenstown Ph. 03 441 4526 New Location in Ponsonby, Auckland 4 Williamson Ave, Ponsonby Ph. 09 376 1631

www.pedros.co.nz

*Delivery Queenstown only; additional charges apply

Over the years, the Festival has been a zeitgeist indicator. Faces and fashions, politicians and celebs have all been pulled into the event’s orbit. Snow Queens and Top Blokes have been crowned in the past and rock royalty usually join politicians to open the Festival. It’s not unusual to have had Prime Ministers such as Sir Rob Muldoon, Helen Clark, or Sir John Key sharing the stage with Shihad, The Exponents, Dave Dobbyn, or Aussie rocker Jimmy Barnes.

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

The Festival’s Friday night is always memorable for the live music and fireworks. In more recent years the Festival’s comedy programme has seen those at the top of their game, including the Flight of the Conchords, Dai Henwood, Brendhan Lovegrove, Jeremy Corbett, Paul Ego, Urzila Carlson and Ben Hurley, entertain sell-out audiences.

By 1993 trans-Tasman winter flights were bringing Australian visitors direct to Queenstown as snowmaking guaranteed a longer, more consistent season. In 1997, festival organisers took a punt bringing the dates forward to late June to position the festival at a time that it would signal that winter was open for business in Queenstown and at a time the town wasn’t already full. The objective being to help extend the season and use the Festival as a powerful promotional tool.

IF YOU CAN WALK YOU CAN SNOWSHOE!

Media coverage and celebrities attending the annual festival mean that no matter where you are in New Zealand in late June, you cannot escape that there is something major happening in Queenstown.

The 2017 Queenstown Winter Festival swings into action 22-25 June, a high-energy four-day format Festival with all that locals and several thousand visitors have come to expect - and a few surprises.

The new Queenstown Winter Festival Welcome on Thursday 22 June will be a special blend of Maori culture and contemporary entertainment. Another new for 2017 is the Real Journeys Thank You Cruise where 90 of the region’s unsung heroes will be recognised and enjoy the Real Journeys Friday Night Party & Fireworks from the TSS Earnslaw. A highlight of the extended daylong Auckland Airport Carnival will be the new Community Night Walking Parade. Also added to the mix is a new Après Ski Bar & Dining Programme. There’s something for all palettes from an exclusive chef’s menu dining experience through to a cocktail and night Bungy combo and a rib eating contest. Quirky and fun elements also feature with iHeartRadio Day on the Bay’s The Hits Birdman, JUCY Undy 500 and Mitre 10 Mega Raft Race bringing out the crazy in the locals.

The roster of live local and New Zealand music across the four days is as good as ever with Anika Moa, Phoenix Foundation, Nomad, Brentwood, The Shambles and many other talented performers.

Comedy Night sold out within hours so another night of hilarity was added. Also returning is the Queenstown Village Ice Rink, the sold out SKYCITY Ball and many other fabulous events.

The Festival is a reflection on what makes Queenstown and its people so great. It’s our Festival and you’re invited. So snap up the last tickets, enter some of the events, or cheer from the side lines. See you out there.

Guided snowshoe walks for all abilities.

• • • •

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Spectacular alpine views Specialist experienced guide Snowshoes and poles provided Return transport from Queenstown

Book now 0800 832 226 www.snowshoeing.co.nz

W I N T E R

G A M E S

W O R L D ' S B E S T AT

Winter Games

The world's best will converge on Central Otago and the Southern Lakes for the 2017 Games

Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

he Audi quattro Winter Games NZ is billed as one of the most prestigious international winter sports events outside the Winter Olympics and the 2017 event will showcase the most diverse sports programme since the inaugural Games in 2009.

“One of Winter Games NZ’s major goals is to expose both Kiwi winter sports talent and the Southern Lakes region globally and by including the Frontier we can demonstrate the strength of New Zealand’s snowsports industry and its athletes,” says Klap.

Leading athletes from around the world will converge on Central Otago and Southern Lakes for this year’s Games scheduled for August 25 - September 9, many chasing coveted places representing their countries at the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang in South Korea in February 2018.

The inclusion of international ice hockey in the 2017 schedule fulfils a long held ambition for Winter Games NZ organisers.

“It’s something we had in our initial planning,” says Klap, “but it’s taken until now to get it to fruition. The fact that it is going ahead is thanks to the efforts of both the New Zealand and Australian Ice Hockey Federations.”

Klap has signalled that the Trans-Tasman clash will become an integral part of future Audi quattro Winter Games NZ programmes.

“We hope, along with the Ice Hockey Federation, that this is something we can grow over the years with the Games providing the backdrop for the regular test series between the two countries.”

Winter Games NZ CEO Arthur Klap says the 2017 Games will be a significant drawcard with a solid programme in place including two FIS Freeski and two FIS Snowboard World Cups at Cardrona Alpine Resort.

New Zealand’s best ice hockey talent will be on show during the series and NZ Ice Hockey League president Gunther Birgel says being officially part of the Winter Games will raise awareness of the sport and give it a lot more exposure.

“For the first time ever all the ski areas in Central Otago—Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona Alpine Resort, Treble Cone and the Snow Farm—will host events highlighting the region and enhancing the Games’ reputation for providing quality, international competition.”

Adding para-snowboarding to the Winter Games NZ programme is a coup for the sport, according to Kiwi Paralympian Carl Murphy.

Additions to this year’s traditional sports schedule of freeski and snowboard, alpine, para-alpine, cross-country and curling events include The North Face Frontier Big Mountain contest at The Remarkables, a Para-Snowboard World Cup Banked Slalom at Treble Cone and a three-test ice-hockey series between the Ice Blacks and Australia at the Queenstown Ice Arena.

“With the growing popularity of snowboarding on the Paralympic schedule it’s awesome to see the Games host a World Cup right on my doorstep. Lining up with the world’s best para-snowboarders with Wanaka in the background will be pretty motivating. The Treble Cone event will be a key qualifier for many riders with the Olympics coming up in 2018.”

The Frontier which is a 4* Freeride World Qualifier (FWQ) event will attract some of the world’s best freeride athletes including prominent Kiwi Sam Lee of Wanaka who took out the North Face Frontier last year, qualifying him for the 2017 Freeride World Tour (FWT). Women’s titleholder Elizabeth Gerritsen of Switzerland is also expected to return to defend her 2016 title.

The FIS Snowboard and Freeski World Cups, featuring both slopestyle and halfpipe competition will put many top Kiwi athletes, who have clocked outstanding results in the Northern Hemisphere winter, on centre stage.

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The Wanaka Wells family of Jossi, Byron, Beau-James and Jackson will fly the flag for New Zealand freeskiing along with other local athletes Miguel and Nico Porteous, Finn Bilous and Sochi Olympic women’s representative Janina Kuzma.

Snowboarding also has an elite New Zealand line-up in Tiarn Collins, Carlos Garcia-Knight and Sochi Olympian Christy Prior.

Up-and-coming 15-year-old Zoi Sadowski-Synott of Wanaka is earmarked as a top contender.

Curling mixed doubles makes its debut in Pyeongchang in 2018 and the demand for places at the Winter Games from high calibre teams from all over the world will create unprecedented competition at Naseby’s Maniototo International Ice Rink.

COME AND ENJOY THE WARM & RELAXED ATMOSPHERE AT ONE OF QUEENSTOWNS’ OLDEST PUBS.

“With six of the top ten ranked teams in the world signed up, the talent on show and level of competition will be the best we have ever seen,” says Winter Games sports manager Iona Bentley.

“There is obviously pressure for high-quality competition in the lead up to the Winter Olympics and we’re in a great position to be able to host that given we are six months out from Pyeongchang.”

Highlights of the sixteen-day Winter Games NZ programme will be the opening ceremony at Coronet Peak featuring a dual slalom under flood lights contested by top internationally ranked alpine skiers while the closing ceremony at Cardrona, headlined by the FIS World Cup Snowboard Halfpipe, will be an absolute crowd puller, according to Klap.

“These ceremonies are spectacular and very much designed to involve spectators. We encourage everyone, with an interest in winter sports or not, to make the effort to attend the opening and closing fixtures. Both Coronet Peak and Cardrona are very accessible and the entertainment planned, along with the high standard of on-snow competition, will provide visitors with a memorable experience of the Winter Games NZ.” Throughout the Games medal ceremonies, following each competition, will be held at individual venues which Klap says is yet another opportunity for the public to participate.

Closest location when hopping on off the bus from the mountain.

Locally owned and operated

48 camp St, queenstown

“With the Games being one of the last major competitions before the 2018 Winter Olympics world-class athletes will compete with leading Kiwis in a bid to gain valuable Olympic qualifying points.

The award ceremonies are an unrivalled chance for people to ‘get up close and personal’ with some of the world’s best winter sportspeople as they appear on the podium.”

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

Alta has been around the Queenstown Snowboard scene for over two decades now with the last 6 years in its current location on Duke St. With probably the biggest range of Snowboards in town we have something to suit everyone.

Whether you are hitting the big line in the park or a first timer we have the gear for you. Our Alta team have been riding for decades and have the knowledge to sort everyone out with their snow requirements for the season. It’s important to us to make sure we are putting our customers in the right gear for them and giving them any advice we can so they can experience an amazing time on the slopes.

NZ's premium ski and snowboard store

Along with our traditional hardware brands we have always stocked (K2, Ride, Bateleon, ThirtyTwo) we have added Nitro to our stable and are super stoked. Nitro is really hitting the mark with everything they do.

Alta is going strong this year on the Ski front too.

In just our second year of doing Ski we have seen massive growth. As well as a massive range of K2 we are exclusive stockists of Line skis and Full Tilt boots.

The goggle/helmet/accessories range at Alta is second to none. There's some great new tech out this year with Smiths Chromapop lens which increase clarity reducing eye fatigue. As well as their AC (Athlete Collection) featuring Pro Models.

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Come in and see us and we’ll do our best to help you get the most out of the winter season.

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Lake Wakatipu

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Q U E E N S T O W N

Sharpshooters

in e snow

Getting the perfect shot is the best trick of all

D

iaries Downunder, now into its 10th season, is the longest running snow web series in the Southern Hemisphere, showcasing great stories and content from New Zealand's dramatic alpine wonderland.

Nick Hyne, who co-created and co-owns Diaries Downunder with filmmaker Ben Ryan, have travelled far and wide documenting New Zealand's winter highlights. Diaries Downunder has now evolved into a full, year-round film production company, with a solid foundation in snow filming.

The web series is largely tourism focused but with a twist, for those looking for a more trick-focussed content.

For the team at Diaries Downunder, it is all about about telling great stories from the New Zealand mountains. Our production crew is in the mountains all winter long to capture the very best of the New Zealand winter.

We have an extensive snow-based distribution network that spans over 150 websites and multiple TV networks and in-flight entertainment, spreading our content worldwide.

Footage and image archive of quality outdoor content is diverse and showcases the New Zealand winter in a creative and epic way.

We have an ever-expanding loyal snow-based following, who spend an increasing amount of their time online, sharing and watching content.

Mountains are challenging environments to film in and our shooters have more than 12 years experience creating snow based media.

We offer opportunities to align your brand with the youth action sports market across multiple platforms; online, TV and social media.

We know what it takes to get the best footage and know the best locations in NZ to get it. We know our audience because we are the audience, and this ensures our content is always engaging and well received.

Our focus is always on high quality innovative film-making.

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Q U EE N S T O W N

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Go Travel NZ ¡ Winter 2017

Destination Queenstown Whether you have an appetite for adventure, mountains and fresh air or are more at home enjoying a delicious meal, fine wine and a roaring fire, get away from the everyday and escape to Queenstown

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Q U E E N S T O W N

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estled alongside the pristine waters of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by majestic, snowcapped mountains ready for winter activities, Queenstown is the perfect winter holiday destination.

Whether you have an appetite for adventure, mountains and fresh air or are more at home enjoying a delicious meal, fine wine and a roaring fire, get away from the everyday and escape to Queenstown.

The cosmopolitan town has a welcoming, vibrant energy that resonates across the resort to make Queenstown a unique holiday destination. Big enough to offer a wide range of accommodation, activities, ski fields, events, eateries and bars—yet small enough to make you feel like you belong.

Every year from early June onwards, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting snow sports enthusiasts from around the world with its incredible lake and alpine scenery, crisp blue-sky days, easy access to some of New Zealand's finest ski and snowboard terrain and vibrant après ski scene.

At the start of winter over Queens Birthday weekend (1-4 June 2018) the LUMA Southern Light Project will return for its third year in the Queenstown Gardens, showcasing a curated collection of stunning light sculptures and installations with a focus on transformation of space, public interaction, art, culture and education.

The region’s four ski fields, all within a handy 25 to 90-minute drive of Queenstown, are scheduled to open from mid-June and offer a range of terrain for all levels, whether you’re keen to conquer the basics, enjoy groomed runs, tackle off-piste, throw down some freestyle tricks or experience the thrill of night skiing. With the first snowfalls, you can feel the buzz in town as skiers and snowboarders gear up for a season of fun.

Visit Queenstown at the start of the ski season and experience the electric atmosphere of the town’s annual Queenstown Winter Festival (23rd - 24th June 2018). Winter Festival has grown into the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest winter celebration and is a true showcase of Queenstown's unique culture and community, with street parades, fireworks, entertainment, live music, comedy, loads of family fun, and plenty of mountain mayhem, and loved by locals and visitors alike.

5 Star Apartments on the shores of Lake Wakatipu Hotel Rooms plus 1,2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments Just a 5 Minute Drive from Queenstown Contemporary Apartments with Stunning lake Views

However LUMA and the Queenstown Winter Festival are just the start when it comes to Queenstown’s winter event calendar - there’s loads to do both on and off mountain throughout the season.

The NZ Mountain film festival (6-8 July 2017) is held in Queenstown and is a collection of the world's best adventure films and speakers with amazing atmosphere and inspiring films. If the film fest whets your appetite for adventure racing, Queenstown’s famous Peak to Peak is on mid-August. This is the South Island’s biggest winter multisport event and attracts competitors from around New Zealand.

If the thrill of mountain climbing is what you are after The Remarkables Ice & Mixed Festival (17—20 August 2017) brings together winter alpine climbers from around New Zealand and overseas to advance and promote modern mixed and ice climbing.

The fifth biennial Audi quattro Winter Games NZ return to the region this 25 August - 10 September where Winter Olympic, Paralympic and X Games Winter stars head to New Zealand’s Southern Alps for the first major championships of the season. The Games are one of the world’s top five winter sports competitions, with a relaxed

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

atmosphere, friendly people, sporting action and festival fun - and it’s all free to watch!

If a relaxed, leisurely experience is what you’re after, Queenstown has some great ways to rejuvenate and recharge your batteries.

Gay Ski Week QT (2-9 September 2017) adds its own glitz and glamour when hundreds of revellers come from around the world to Queenstown for the Southern Hemisphere's biggest gay alpine celebration.

Wrap up warmly and explore the region’s spectacular scenery by foot or by bike on one of its many trails. The Queenstown Trail provides 110km of walking and cycling trails which link popular scenic spots.

Scenic walks from downtown Queenstown range from a leisurely stroll around the beautiful lakeside gardens to hiking up Queenstown Hill for magnificent 360 degree vistas.

Queenstown is famous for its year-round high-octane thrills so if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or want to push your boundaries, there’s activities like bungy jumping, jet boating, skydiving, zip trekking, paragliding, dirt biking, supercar or four-wheel-driving-all guaranteed to get your blood pumping!

Queenstown is also an internationally renowned golf hub. With six golf courses, three of international standing, within a 25-minute drive of

r e n n i D , a l o d n Go & Stargazing Enjoy delicious fresh views fare with stunning oration followed by an expl ld of into the hidden wor sky. the Southern night OPEN DAILY please email Bookings essential, ations@skyline.co.nz skylinequeenstownreserv 1 0101 or phone +64 3 44 nstown ee qu z/ .n co Skyline.

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Q U E E N S T O W N

the town centre, they offer everything from family friendly 9-hole courses to immaculately-groomed fairways with snow-capped mountain backdrops so stunning that it’s hard to keep your eye on the ball.

Central Otago produces some of the best Pinot Noir in the world thanks to the region’s combination of shale soil and sharply defined seasons. And with around 200 vineyards within 1½ hours’ drive of Queenstown, wine tours are a great way to explore the area and get an insight into its epicurean culture and world-renowned wines.

When it comes to eating out, Queenstown’s innovative and awardwinning cafés and restaurants offer cuisine to suit every palate.

Along with nearby Arrowtown, Queenstown is home to more than 150 eateries ranging from fine dining to fun dining. Stylish bars, sophisticated clubs, Kiwi pubs and late night hot spots also make Queenstown’s après ski atmosphere second to none.

For the ultimate in relaxation, especially after a day on the slopes, enjoy some 'me time’ at one of Queenstown’s luxury day spas. A full range of treatments are on offer and it’s the perfect way to revitalize mind, body and soul. Or, there are many ways to stretch and recover those tested legs, from languid yoga to Pilates, or even a multi-day retreat designed to help you reconnect with yourself.

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

ONE OF A KIND BOAT & 4WD FISHING EXPERIENCES Your guides Trevor and Simon are a dynamic father and son team who between them have over 70 years fishing experience in the Southern Lakes region.

Well known for their sense of fun and adventure, this duo are sure to meet your expectations with good times and a few laughs coupled with generous helpings or advice and pointers to ensure you leave with a smile and the best opportunity of a fish in hand!

Queenstown offers a wide range of accommodation from budget to five-star, with international chains of hotels and motels alongside backpacker properties, B&Bs, and luxury lodges. Whether you choose to stay within walking distance of town or venture further out, you’ll find friendly hosts and spectacular views.

A short 20-minute drive from Queenstown is the beautiful old gold mining village of Arrowtown and this is a trip worth its weight in gold. In 1862 the cry of “gold” brought thousands of miners to the Arrow River. Through careful preservation, the legacy of the early settlers has been retained over time and created a fascinating, picturesque town where the past and present seamlessly blend. Arrowtown is now a treasure in its own right with quaint tree-lined streets, old miners’ cottages, a restored Chinese Village and the Lakes District Museum which is the focal point for the rich history of the town and surrounding areas.

To experience a true slice of paradise head west to Glenorchy, a spectacular 45-minute drive from Queenstown at the top of Lake Wakatipu. Bordered by the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, this tiny hamlet is the gateway to some of New Zealand’s most epic scenery.

Glenorchy offers several café options with a hearty southern meal and accommodation options to suit everyone. There’s also a visitor centre, garage and general store as well as its famous possum fur products and New Zealand-made designer garments and gifts. It’s a great place to get back to nature and enjoy tandem hang gliding, wilderness jet boating, horse riding, fishing, kayaking, and is starting point for many multi-day hikes.

For more inspiration and information on flights, activities and accommodation visit www.queenstownnz.co.nz.

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3HR

6HR

• BROWN TROUT • RAINBOW TROUT • CHINOOK SALMON

PVT

0800 466 533

WWW.QUEENSTOWNFISHING.CO.NZ

Q U e e N s T O W N

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queenstowncowboys@gmail.com

Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

ski area LOWDOWN Coronet Peak is New Zealand’s original ski resort, and Queenstown’s closest at 25 minutes’ drive from downtown. World-class facilities, superb conditions and spectacular rollercoaster terrain make Coronet Peak an exciting destination for snow lovers of any ability. Experience magnificent views, a stunning base building, fantastic on-mountain facilities, awesome food and beverage outlets including the Ice Bar up the mountain, stateof-the-art snowmaking. Night skiing on the weekends and Wednesdays in July is a must do in Queenstown, while for early risers First Tracks, from 8am-9am, is also very popular. Shuttle options available from the Duke Street Snow Centre.

The Remarkables is a true alpine experience just a 45-minute drive from central Queenstown and is perfect for the whole family, from beginners and novices to advanced skiers and boarders. Featuring one of only six Burton-designed Stashs, this is also the Queenstown destination for park enthusiasts. The new base building is a world-class facility with improved restaurant, ticketing, rentals and retail areas. With its high alpine location, sunny aspect and relaxed atmosphere, it’s become a firm local favourite with locals and visitors. The Remarkables features a six-seat, high-speed Curvey Basin chairlift, alongside increased snow making capacity, a large and wide learners’ area, fresh trails, ample car parking with the first 10km of the 12km access road now sealed. Shuttle options are available. It also features the first-in-New-Zealand enclosed double conveyor lift in the learners’ area, keeping users protected from weather while still being able to see friends or family having fun. Shuttle options available from the Duke Street Snow Centre.

Both mountains are the only New Zealand members of The Mountain Collective, a grouping of 15 of the best ski resorts in the world, where discounts are provided to season passes of each mountain.

Cardrona Alpine Resort has a laid-back and friendly vibe, deep snow cover, wide open slopes, serious half pipes, steep chutes and an extensive terrain park for freestylers, great family facilities, and onmountain accommodation. Cardrona is an hour’s drive from Queenstown and shuttle options are available. There are over $15million worth of developments for the 2017 winter season including the new McDougall’s Express Chondola a combination of gondola cabins & chairs, the first of its kind in NZ. Treble Cone is the South Island’s biggest ski area and a favourite for advanced skiers and snowboarders with the longest vertical rise in the Southern Lakes, two large basins, great off-piste terrain and stunning views. Novices are also well catered for with a dedicated free learning area. The ski area is an hour and a half’s drive or a short 15-minute flight from Queenstown, and there is also an express Queenstown bus service running from the Queenstown I-site.

Platinum Queenstown offers luxury villa accommodation with: • 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, full kitchen, laundry, spacious lounge/dining areas and lock-up garage • stunning views of either lake or surrounding alpine vista • 2 minutes drive from centre of Queenstown • ideal for families, business travellers, couples or groups Relax in pure luxury and experience the best of our alpine and lake wonderland.

Phone: +64 3 746 7700 39

or visit our website: platinumqueenstown.co.nz

F I O R D LA N D

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Go Travel NZ ¡ Winter 2017

Fiordland a winter wonderland From sea to sky, Milford Sound takes your breath away, writes Adam Brinkley

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F I O R D L A N D

A

s I stand at the Milford Sound Pier, preparing to board our luxury overnight cruise, I am taken aback by the sheer beauty of the place. It truly is like nothing you have ever seen before. Vast granite rock faces protruding out of the sea on all sides, towering thousands of metres into the clouds above. Their slopes littered with waterfalls that trickle their way down through the vertical rainforest into the blue waters below. It’s just a few Pterodactyls short of being a scene from Jurassic Park!

charters. Typically these trips work their way from Doubtful to Dusky Sound (or vice versa) over the course of 5-7 nights and passengers have the option of being helied in or out from Manapouri.

These charters will be operating throughout the Spring and Autumn months, with the luxury overnight cruises taking precedent in the Summer and Winter. In fact, this Winter will be the first time that any company has offered an overnight service in Milford. Surprisingly this is actually one of the best times to visit as the weather is much calmer and better suited for helicopter landings, making it perfect for customers who are looking for a quick luxury getaway from their ski holidays.

The vessel we are boarding is the Fiordland Jewel, a brand new, custom built, luxury catamaran. Among its features it boasts five-star dining and sleeping facilities, a rooftop spa pool, on-board cinema, diving equipment, a remote operated vehicle (ROV) and even a helipad. If Ritz Carlton made boats, then this would be it. Furthermore, whereas most tour companies just offer a two hour cruise up and down the sound, Fiordland Discovery provides a unique overnight dining experience that gives you the rare opportunity to appreciate Milford's beauty without the crowds and the boats blemishing the horizon. It's hard to think of a more pleasant and romantic way to spend an evening.

Upon our return to the boat we are welcomed by a symphony of smells from the kitchen. We are seated for dinner and treated to a glass of Central Otago wine, which awakens the taste buds nicely.

The three course meal that follows is absolutely exquisite, with the freshly caught crayfish starter stealing the show for me. A few more glasses of wine later and everyone is in great spirits, chatting freely and revelling away the evening. Jack shows us all some amazing underwater footage he’s captured with the ROV on the cinema screen, revealing black coral, octopuses and sharks in a new subterranean side of Milford we've not seen yet. Then it’s all up to the rooftop hot tub for a quick soak and a stargaze before bed.

We are welcomed aboard the Jewel by the captain—Shaun—a charming Kiwi seaman who has been navigating the Fiords since he was a kid. Accompanying him on the voyage are Tall Paul (resident knowledge bank and physical giant), Jack (deck-hand and eldest son of the owner), Kaz (hostess extraordinaire) and Patrick (the on-board Fijian chef). We are told to sit back and relax as they will be tending to our every need over the next 17 hours. As we set out into the fiord, I can't help but feel a tad smug about my current predicament.

We awake to the most spectacular views outside of our cabin window. I have to pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming. A breakfast spread awaits us downstairs and we are blessed with another visit from the dolphins whilst we sip our morning coffee.

What a way to start your day! As we pull back into Milford Marina, me and my girlfriend let out a unanimous sigh. We've had such a wonderful time and met so many amazing people that we simply don't want to leave. This will undeniably be a weekend that neither of us will ever forget. Stunning views, incredible wildlife, delicious food, amazing staff and a boat fit for Royalty. This is surely the only way to experience the timeless wonder of Milford Sound.

Milford is famed for its wildlife, and over the course of the evening we are spoilt time and time again with incredible animal encounters.

First by a herd of seal, casually bathing themselves upon 'seal rock' whilst the pups frolic about in the water below only metres from the boat. Shortly after, we spot a group of Fiordland Crested Penguins waddling away in the distance, the second rarest species of penguin in the world and only native to Fiordland. But by far the most spectacular sight of the evening was when a pod of dolphins appeared right under the bow of the boat and playfully swam alongside us for over 15 minutes, almost as if they were escorting us along our way.

After a few hours of cruising we set anchor in a nice secluded part of the Sound, with no other boats or buildings in sight. Tall Paul and Patrick reel in some crayfish traps which they have left out overnight, and to everyone’s delight they haul in more than enough to feed all 20 mouths on board an appetizer's worth for dinner. What a treat!

As they go off to prepare the food, Jack asks if anyone would like to go out for a spin in the on-deck kayaks. I sign up in a flash, however, my better half decides to stay behind and enjoy the sunset on the viewing deck with a glass of wine in hand.

As we paddle out alongside the sheer granite cliffs, Jack begins to fill me in on the history of the family business. It turns out his father Rob was originally a commercial fisherman by trade, but enjoyed nothing more than going on multi-day hunting/fishing/diving trips around the Sounds in his spare time. As a little side project, he started taking guests out with him and quickly realised that there was huge demand for a boat that was both highly versatile (in order to adequately equip the thrill-seekers) but also lavishly comfortable (so families and holiday makers could enjoy themselves as well).

DID YOU

KNOW

Fiordland stretches over 12,120km2 with a permanent population of less than 2000.

Fiordland National park is the largest national park in New Zealand.

Rob designed the Jewel himself and had it built entirely to spec in Nelson over the course of two years. It only took its maiden voyage in December, so its still not even lost that new boat smell. Currently it is the only commercially operating luxury vessel in Fiordland that can be taken out in the open sea for multi-day fishing/hunting/diving

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W A N A K A

Waterfaing

Canyoning:

A Unique New Zealand Adventure

W

hen planning your journey through the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island, one of the obvious options for your itinerary is to hike up a mountain - or many of them. But one thing you might not have considered is a totally unique way to get back down.

Canyoning is a relatively new sport in the world of outdoor adventure, taking you on a journey through stunning waterfalls and crystal blue pools in hidden ravines that very few people get to see. With the help of an experienced guide, you could be jumping from rock walls, sliding down naturally smoothed stone, swimming in pristine water, and abseiling next to (and through) the rushing water of New Zealand’s hidden waterfalls. It’s an exhilarating experience full of action, but with plenty of moments to take in the atmosphere of the world around you.

Wanaka’s canyons are world-class attracting canyoneers from around the globe. There are canyons to suit your experience and desired adrenaline level, with some canyons offering lots of opportunities to jump, and others with more emphasis on big abseils, including multi-pitches down waterfalls and into atmospheric caverns.

It’s a full day of adventure, where you’re learning new skills and having a hands-on experience under direction of your qualified guide. So as you ponder what unique adventures to pursue during your limited time exploring wild and scenic New Zealand, remember to look beyond the peaks. There’s a whole world waiting beneath the waterfalls!

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Walk on the

Wild Side The ultimate alpine adventure

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xplore New Zealand’s unique and exquisite alpine wonderland with a mountain guide from Adventure Consultants. Wanaka based mountain guiding outfitter Adventure Consultants have been established for over 25 years and have a passion for the high country alpine areas of the Southern Alps and the ‘off the beaten track’ style of trip.

Mountain guiding in New Zealand has a long and established history with the first guided ascents of the high peaks in Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand’s highest peak, occurring in the early 1880s. Nowadays mountain guides in New Zealand are certified by the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association and have an international qualification—IFMGA Mountain and Ski Guide (International Federation of Mountain Guides Association).

Winter pursuits on offer include journeys on skis into the back country, which is called ski touring and is available for intermediate through to advanced skiers and snowboarders.

Options from day trips through to several days spent in a high alpine hut with acres of open snowy space to enjoy without the crowds that a ski resort has.

Ice climbing on frozen waterfalls near to Queenstown sees clients of Adventure Consultants tackling the ultimate vertical winter adventure! Adventure Consultants operate 5 day Ice Climbing Courses and private guiding ice climbing experiences from their winter expedition camp in Wye Creek with helicopter access included.

In summer the mountain adventure options are endless—from learning to climb on a mountaineering course through to scaling the highest peaks in the Southern Alps or trekking along ridgelines in the National Parks above the glaciers with views out to the ocean. Contact the mountain adventure specialists at Adventure Consultants for your ultimate high alpine adventure.

DID YOU KNOW

Wanaka is a town in the Queenstown-Lakes district of Otago with a population of 9036. It’s namesake, Lake Wanaka, is New Zealand’s fourth largest, covering 192km 2 . Wanaka is popular for the many outdoor pursuits in the area—from skydiving and kayaking on the lake to skiing and snowboarding on the nearby Treble Cone Ski Area in the winter seasons, or visiting the beautiful Crown Range and Mount Aspiring National Park.

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D U N E D I N

Taieri

TALES OF THE

Dunedin is a fabulous city, loaded with lots of amazing things to see and do

I

began my stay with a trip on the Taieri Gorge Railway, operated

by Dunedin Railways and was pleased I had.

After checking into the famous Dunedin Railway station, which is located in the city and well worth exploring first, I boarded the train for the trip. The train quickly passes through the suburbs and outer areas of Dunedin to arrive at the Taieri Gorge.

DID YOU

KNOW

This narrow gorge with the Taieri River flowing smoothly through it is nothing short of spectacular. With every twist and turn there is something new to see and the next scene is even more stunning than the last.

Dunedin is known as the Edinburgh of the south and is the South Islands second largest city.

Wildlife is abundant in the adjoining Otago Peninsula which is home to colonies of albatross, sealions and rare penguins Dunedin is well yellow eyed penguins. known for it’s Victorian and Edwardian architecture, as well as including New Zealand’s only castle Larnach Castle.

On board, the train manager gives us an informative and fascinating commentary and the train's guard and souvenir sales person wander through armed with facts, memorabilia and witty snippets.

The train also has an onboard cafe with a very nice selection of food and beverages. Try the cheese rolls, which are a southern New Zealand delicacy ... and the coffee is pretty good too.

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Go Travel NZ ¡ Winter 2017

Taieri Gorge to Pukerangi

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K A I K O U R A

Whale Tales Sperm whales, Blue Whales, Humpback whales …

Kaikoura is a marine Mecca writes Alex Cuff

F

ormed in 1987 by the indigenous Ngati Kuri people, a subtribe of the South Island’s larger Ngai Tahu Tribe, Whale Watch Kaikoura was created to help alleviate the Maori community’s unemployment difficulties. Since then, Whale Watch Kaikoura has developed into an international award-winning ecotourism company and is a world leader when it comes to exploring and discovering sea life.

the front desk. Basic safety briefings and standards are carefully communicated on an overhead screen with an emphasis on child safety, which makes everyone feel more at ease and comfortable.

We make our way to the bus and are each individually welcomed with a friendly greeting by our bus driver Willie, who tells us that this is “a pearler of a day”, with near perfect conditions and only a small swell.

Whale Watch is dedicated to the protection of marine wildlife and the care of the environment. Whale Watch’s respect, guardianship and passion towards the whale species is evident in all aspects of the experience - from postcards found at the booking-in centre, to the crew’s description of the whales as spectacular and wondrous.

After the short bus drive over the peninsula to South Bay we are taken to the marina. Here Tohora, one of four custom made vessels is waiting for us with four crew members outside with eager smiles and greetings. We are seated and spoken to by our guide Aroha, who introduces us to our captain for the day, Paki, along with fellow crew Allan and Haley. Aroha starts the tour off by having us comically searching for our seatbelts when we finally realise that there aren’t

Glancing around the Whale Watch reception, tourists lined up on either side of me are bubbling with excitement as they book in at

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

Photos courtesy of: Whale Watch Kaikoura

any on a boat. Her relaxed nature and local wisdom is comforting as she navigates her way through safety procedures.

DID YOU

Within minutes of gliding through the water we begin our journey out to sea and are instantly welcomed by marine wildlife, as birds soar overhead and seals bask in the seas stillness. A light breeze fills the air and the backdrop of snowy mountains contrasted against the glistening ocean on such a sunny day makes for the perfect postcard picture. Aroha directs our attention back to the main purpose of our visit; to see some of the world’s largest and most treasured creatures.

She tells us that Sperm whales are what we are most likely to see today as they are found feeding in the Kaikōura canyon year round.

KNOW

Kaikoura is a coastal town in the northern part of the South Island with a population of 3,860.

Renowned for it’s fishing and sea-life, visitors will delight in seeing marine mammals such as the Dusky dolphin or Sperm whale at play. In Māori folklore, Kaikoura is where the hero Maui placed his foot to steady himself while he “fished-up” the North Island.

Sperm whales are the largest of the toothed whales and can reach an average of 16 metres in length with the largest brain of any animal on earth. Aroha also tells us about how Sperm whales use a liquid

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

substance called spermaceti to regulate their buoyancy which can solidify or become liquid depending on whether the mammal wants to dive down for food or come back up for air. She also tells us about other whales such as the Humpback, Blue Whale & other species of marine life sighted throughout the year.

Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand’s ultimate all-year-round marine experience.

Suddenly we hear news that there is already a Sperm whale on the surface. The boat positions itself next to the whale and the wowing of ecstatic voices fills the air around me as we all look on in amazement. The whale is submerged with its head in full view to us. I quickly snap photos and then put my camera down to enjoy this moment of having such a magnificent and astonishing creature right in front of us. As the boat idles, everyone falls silent as they watch the whale spend time taking in oxygen as he lays content in the calm water. Over the microphone Aroha tells us that this is Tiaki, a semi-residential whale to the Kaikōura canyon.

The crew can distinguish individuals by their unique tails & dorsal.

We are able to watch the whale for another ten minutes before it begins to arch its back and dive back down towards the seabed with its signature tale flick upon its descent. Left in its place is its footprint, a displacement of water due to the descending tale brush which once was believed by early settlers to be oil left behind from the whale.

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K A I K O U R A

The experience is exhilarating, and left with the rush of the breathtaking sight, we head off towards Barney’s Rock, which is a fur seal colony. We are told more about the other whales Aoraki, Tutu and Manu, which frequently visit the Kaikōura canyon along the way. As the boat draws to a close we see a small pod of hector dolphins pass by us. Cushioned around the snow-tipped Kaikōura ranges with the endless sea surrounding us, it is hard to imagine anywhere else you would rather be.

As the sun begins to disappear behind the mountains, we begin our leisurely retreat to dry land. Gliding through the water with sea spray at our sides, we recline in our seats and watch a detailed video of the Kaikōura canyon; a submarine canyon that connects into a deep sea channel system.

Valid for stays up to March 31st 2018

It is a bitter-sweet moment as we wave goodbye to the crew from the departing bus. The sense of being suspended in liquid disappears but the memory remains, along with the magnificent experience of Kaikōura’s immense sea creatures, which will stay with us for a lifetime. Kaikoura truly is a marine mecca.

Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand’s ultimate all year round marine experience offering visitors exciting close encounters with male Sperm whales. An impressive 95% success rate means that you are guaranteed an 80% refund if your tour does not see a whale.

Tours are scheduled year round. Bookings essential—please visit for more information and tour bookings www.whalewatch.co.nz

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Dolphin Encounter Swimming with and watching Kaikoura’s Dusky Dolphins!

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

Café Encounter

Albatross Encounter

Kaikoura is regarded as the best place in the world to see seabirds.

Our café on the beachfront is the perfect setting to enjoy breakfast, lunch, all day snacks and delicious OZONE coffee. There’s Free WiFi and plenty of parking too.

Visit our Gift Shop & Gallery

Incredible photography opportunities and expert commentary... experience these majestic birds and many other species in their ocean environment.

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

96 Esplanade, Kaikoura, New Zealand.

Phone (03) 319 6777 NZ Freephone 0800 733 365

www.encounterkaikoura.co.nz

N E L S O N

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M A R L B O R O U G H

GOLDEN DAYS IN

Golden Bay

Crystal clear springs, dramatic cave formations, golden sands and manuka honey beer await those who thirst for some truly stunning scenery Hiking the Heaphy Track

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ramatic peaks, green dairy pastures, golden sands … the first view of Golden Bay Mohua from Takaka Hill can take your breath away.

Takaka River runs north towards the distant sea, while beyond the valley rise the dramatic Tasman Mountains.

At the summit, the subterranean splendors of Harwoods Hole (the deepest sinkhole in the Southern Hemisphere at 176m deep) and the Ngarua Caves lend a mystical magic to the landscape: it’s not surprising the area featured as film locations in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Early names such as Murderer’s Bay, Massacre Bay and Coal Bay indicate an interesting past before the bay at the top north west of the South Island was named Golden Bay Mohua and came to represent a holiday location of rare beauty and tranquillity.

Known as a popular tourist destination because of its settled weather and relaxed, friendly lifestyle, the bay is protected in the north by the extraordinary Farewell Spit, a thin arch of land protruding for some 30km from the mainland.

After navigating down the zig zagging highway, take time to visit Te Waikoropupu Springs (also known as Pupu Springs and the largest cold water springs in the Southern Hemisphere) - a tranquil, spiritual spot boasting the third clearest fresh water in the world (after the sub-glacial water in the Antarctic and Blue Lake in Tasman).

Evidence of Maori settlement along the shores of the Golden Bay dates from at least 1450. When Dutch explorer Abel Tasman anchored 7km out of the bay in 1642, local iwi Ngati Tumatakokiri rammed the Dutch ship’s landing boat with a waka and killed four crew, for which Tasman named the bay Moordennar’s (Murderer’s) Bay.

Extraordinarily beautiful, the springs are a waahi tapu or sacred place to the local Maori tribe, and touching the water is forbidden but you can take a stroll around the walkways and read the interpretive panels along the way, which explain why and how the water is so clear (in a nut shell, Takaka Hill is one giant filtration system due to the karst rock).

It is thought the French explorer Jules Dumont d’Urville changed the name to Massacre Bay in the late 1700s. European settlement commenced in 1842 following the discovery of coal on one of the beaches, but a bid by locals to rename the area Coal Bay was quickly eclipsed by the discovery of gold in the region, and the ensuing gold rush saw the name Golden Bay come into use and eventually officially adopted.

Travelling on around the huge, sandy bay which is famous for its scallops, Collingwood is the final settlement of any size before Farewell Spit, the lengthy sand-spit wrapping itself around the upper reaches of the bay.

The Spit is a bird sanctuary and Wetland of International Importance so there are DOC restrictions on public access but guided 4WD safaris depart daily to see the lighthouse at the end of the spit, NZ fur seals and the birds. But writing about it doesn’t do this extraordinary landscape justice - it needs to be experienced in person.

Before you lay eyes on Golden Bay, you'll enjoy an amazingly scenic road journey. The long, slow climb over Takaka Hill - New Zealand’s longest hill - is the first enjoyable challenge. The steep twisting road reveals the ancient craggy lime and marble formations and caving system that give the hill its popular name of the marble mountain.

Well-signposted lookouts lure the driver off the road from time to time to enjoy spectacular views over Tasman Bay to Nelson and beyond, but once the summit of Takaka Hill is crossed at 791m above sea level, Golden Bay suddenly appears with startling beauty, the glacial movement that formed the deep green valley evident as the

Also of note, for its dramatic rock formations and sand dunes (created by dramatic wind and waves) is Wharariki Beach, located on the Tasman Sea side of Cape Farewell. The beach is accessed on foot about 20 minutes’ comfortable walk from the carpark but the ultimate Wharariki experience is via horse trek.

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Highlights of

Golden Bay: • Take a tour through the Te Anaroa Caves in Rockville, and be amazed by the fossils, stalagmites, stalactites and glowworms.

• Make a day of it up the Anatoki River see the animals and feed the tame eels at Bencarri Farm Park, then pop next door and go fishing and have your catch hot smoked at Anatoki Salmon.

• Pack your togs and go for a bush walk the Wainui Falls are a 30-minute walk from the carpark, and there are excellent swimming holes in the river on the way to the falls, plus a swing bridge!

• Sample an apple cider or manuka beer with a steaming plate of mussels at the iconic Golden Bay venue, The Mussel Inn. • Walk the 78km Heaphy Track one of the Department of Conservation’s ‘Great Walks’ in the Kahurangi National Park (mountain biking option in winter, or cycle the Rameka Track all year round).

• Drive to the most northerly tip of the South Island and take a walk around Puponga farm, a guided nature and bird tour along Farewell Spit, or ride along Wharariki Beach on horseback.

• Experience Golden Bay’s thriving art community via more than 35 art galleries and museums or spend some time in Takaka township taking in the local café culture.

DID YOU

• Hit the water! Kayaking the beautiful but quieter northern end of the Abel Tasman National Park is a great way to explore the stunning coastline.

• Take a scenic coastal drive past the massive limestone cliffs at Tarakohe, to the Golden Beaches of Ligar Bay and Tata Beach.

KNOW

Nelson is a city on the eastern shores of Tasman Bay with a population of around 50,000.

Situated at the top north-west of the South Island, it is the sunniest region in New Zealand.

Adventures . . . fueled by Proper Crisps

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K Ā P I T I

C O A S T

Kapiti

The perfect weekend getaway Just a 45 minute drive from Wellington lies an area of spectacular sea vistas, breathtaking sunsets, untouched native forest and dramatic ranges, writes Jennie Gutry

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āpiti consists of a series of villages and towns spread along the 40km of coastline, each with its own character and charms.

swing bridges and steep steps. Most trampers walk from Paekākāriki to Pukerua Bay and then train back and enjoy a coffee and slice in Paekākāriki village.

The southernmost village, Paekākāriki is an authentic kiwi seaside village regarded as the creative hub of the district with many actors, dancers, musicians, film-makers and artists making this town their own. Visitors are warmly welcomed to this little village which boasts its own radio station (88.2FM), cafes, a bar, motel, bookshop, 24 seat luxury cinema, monthly market, library, tennis court, organic greengrocer and other specialty shops. It is not unusual to have a national musical act like Dave Dobbyn playing on a Saturday night in the village hall.

Raumati village is close to Raumati Beach and has a surprising array of upmarket, specialty fashion and interior shops. Here you can buy New Zealand and international labels not available anywhere else. Add in a scrumptious French Patisserie making traditional French cakes, slices, bread and pate; a wide choice of eateries from restaurants to takeaways, two bars and coffee options galore and it is easy to spend a lazy morning shopping and eating here. Close by, the Marine Gardens is a mecca for families in the summer with its free splash pad water park, playground and miniature ride-on train.

Backing on to Queen Elizabeth Park, the whole area offers wonderful walks, cycle paths and more challenging tramps like the Paekākāriki Escarpment Track, fondly referred to as the ‘Stairway to Heaven’.

Part of the national Te Araroa walking trail, this 10km walking track clings perilously to the hillside overlooking the Kāpiti Coast with

Paraparaumu Beach is the largest of all the seaside villages and has a wide range of shops, cafes, restaurants, and a thriving Saturday market which has been the birthplace of many successful food products, including Thoroughbread delicious paleo and gluten free breads, which are still sold at the market today. Paraparaumu Beach

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Sunrise at Kāpiti Island Photo: Kāpiti Island Nature Tours

is also the gateway to Kāpiti Island, New Zealand’s oldest nature reserve and home to some of our rarest and most endangered birds, which you can see in their natural habitat. Here you can experience New Zealand as it was, before man arrived, when the birds definitely ruled the roost.

DID YOU

KNOW

Day trips and overnight Kiwi spotting tours can be arranged with Kāpiti Island Nature Tours. There is also a stunning Marine Reserve around the island with exceptional diving and snorkelling opportunities. “Kapiti Island was the highlight of my time in New Zealand. I saw more birds in a day there than I have in my entire life!”

Hana, London

Kāpiti has its own airport with daily flights from Auckland Kāpiti Cheeses were first made in a tiny shop in Paraparaumu in 1984, Dairy giant Fonterra bought the brand in 2005

Close by, Paraparaumu Beach Golf course is one of only twelve marquee courses in New Zealand and is regarded by many as one of the greatest links courses in the southern hemisphere. The course has hosted more New Zealand Opens than any other club and was the local course for Steve Williams who learnt his caddying skills here.

There are over 2000 Kiwis on Kāpiti Island The Tararua Forest Park is the largest conservation park in the North Island

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K Ā P I T I

C O A S T

Paekākāriki Lookout Photo: Mark Coote

Paekākāriki Market Photo: Mark Coote

Kāpiti Island was the highlight of my time in New Zealand. I saw more birds in a day there than I have in my entire life!

Hana, London The next town along the coast going north is Waikanae which can lay claim to being the garden and bird capital of New Zealand.

Waikanae Estuary is a bird lovers’ paradise with 77 species of birds found here including royal spoonbills, native dabchicks, banded dotterel and scaup (ducks). Waikanae is also home to Ngā Manu Nature Reserve, a beautiful natural setting where visitors can see native birds in walk-through aviaries, as well as tuatara (New Zealand’s only native reptile) and long-finned eels.

Waikanae won New Zealand’s most beautiful town in 2015 and a drive through the residential areas will show you why.

The temperate climate here lends itself to sustaining beautiful

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Stairway to Heaven part of Te Araroa national trail

SOUTHWARD CAR MUSEUM WORLD CLASS

If you are coming through wellington make sure you don’t miss one of the best collections of automobiles and automotive history in the southern hemisphere.

OVER 500 CARS AND MOTORBIKES AS WELL AS OTHER EXHIBITS

OTA I H A N G A R O A D J U S T O F F S TAT E H I G H WAY 1 A N D A N H O U R O U T O F W E L L I N G TO N.

www.southwardcarmuseum.co.nz

WELLINGTON EXPLORER WALKS

K Ā P I T I

C O A S T

gardens and many Waikanae residents are passionate about their quarter acre plots; a part of Waikanae is even known as the ‘Garden Area’.

As well as the town centre, there is a laid back beach settlement at Waikanae Beach.

Don’t let the relaxed feel fool you though; Waikanae Beach has some upmarket eateries with internationally renowned chefs, including Waimea, Long Beach and Front Room restaurants.

The most northerly town is Ōtaki which has three different parts. State Highway One has specialty and outlet stores which are popular with Wellingtonians. Main Street, Ōtaki is the civic centre of the district and Ōtaki Beach is a glorious unspoilt beach with a surf school and surf lifesaving club but little else.

EXPLORE OUR WORLD

Ōtaki is the earliest settled part of Kāpiti and used to be a district in its own right with its own Mayor and Town Hall. It is the cultural capital of Kāpiti with a strong Māori identity and history. It is common to hear locals speak te reo Māori on the streets here and there

WWW.GREENJERSEY.CO.NZ

tours@greenjersey.co.nz

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New Zealand’s dinosaur descendant, the tuatara at Ngā Manu Nature Reserve

are plans to make Ōtaki the first bi-lingual town in New Zealand. Ōtaki has a couple of unique attractions—the only Māori Racing Club still in existence in New Zealand, and Rangiātea Church which combines English and Māori designs. Ōtaki is also the gateway to the Tararua Forest Park, the largest conservation park in the North Island. It offers an outstanding variety of tramping, hunting and walking opportunities in a wild, natural landscape. Even those who can’t walk far can enjoy the short walkways from Ōtaki Gorge and the beautiful river scenery.

A weekend is the perfect time to explore all the Kāpiti settlements and enjoy the contrasting and vibrant feel of each place.

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Day tours or overnight kiwi spotting tours Cabins & luxury tents

Fantastic birdlife

Inspiring bush & coastal walks Delicious meals & great company HISTORY - CONSERVATION - RECREATION

For info & bookings visit: www.kapitiisland.com • 0800 527 484

E A S T L A N D

East Cape

— the Great Escape — A remarkable area of New Zealand

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his was the first part of New Zealand to be discovered by both Maori and European explorers with Waka arriving from Hawaiiki about 1,000 years ago and followed by Captain Cook almost 250 years ago. Eastland is also the first place in the world to see the new day’s light, and visitors that set their alarm to get up early will be rewarded with a sunrise like no other.

sometimes stark beauty and the interesting characters you meet along the way. The beaches and coves are mystical and spooky with their black, almost volcanic looking rocky inlets and native bush growing with wild abandon. Highlights are the impossibly long wharf at Tolaga Bay, stingray feeding at Tatapouri, the magnificent Tikitiki church, the carvings at Mt Hikurangi and sunrise at the East Cape Lighthouse.

Opotiki is the northern gateway to the East Cape. The jewel in Opotiki’s crown is the Motu Trails, heaven for cycle enthusiasts. The Pakihi Track is a stunningly beautiful mountain bike trail that’s not for the faint hearted and The Dunes Trail starting at the centre of Opotiki is a gentle ride along the coastline.

From the cape to Gisborne the road takes you inland and the landscape transforms into lush rolling high country farms and one long sandy beach after another.

At the heart of the region is Gisborne, a laid back coastal town famous for its golden sand beaches. Gisborne is lucky enough to occupy a beautiful and remote part of New Zealand. Its isolation, perched out on the most easterly edge of the country, has shaped the town and its charming coastal character. The city is compact, easy to navigate and surrounded by world class surf beaches, quality vineyards, groves of citrus, magnificent trees and wild rivers that meander towards empty beaches.

The Eastland section of the Pacific Coast Highway, State Highway 35, is one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives. There is an amazing contrast between the north and south sides of the East Cape.

The drive from Opotiki to the East Cape hugs the coastline most of the way. The views are simply stunning and the laidback “coastie” way of life a delight, with many locals still using horses for dayto-day travel. There is something special about the isolation, the

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domecinema.co.nz

Mt Hikurangi Photo: Ngati Porou Tourism

DID YOU

KNOW

The Eastland district stretches over 8,355km2.

Eastland is the place where the first Polynesian canoes landed, Captain Cook made his first landfall and Maori and European first encountered each other. Gisborne, the largest settlement in Eastland, is the first city in the world to see the sun each day.

The city is compact, easy to navigate and surrounded by world class surf beaches, quality vineyards, groves of citrus, magnificent trees and wild rivers .

Located in Gisborne’s historic Poverty Bay Club, the Dome Cinema is an eclectic mix of elegance and groove. Loved by musicians as one of New Zealand’s top live venues and chosen by Jettsetter magazine as the 2nd best Cinema Restaurant in the World.

FOR YOUR PLEASURE - award winning movies, live music, fine dining, pizza & cocktails, all served up in the lush and intoxicating Dome Bar and Cinema WWW.DOMECINEMA.CO.NZ DOME BAR AND CINEMA

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38 CHILDERS RD GISBORNE NEW ZEALAND

E A S T L A N D

MOTEL Home on the Planet Hom Ho m e of the First st Sunrise Sun Plane nett

East Cape Lighthouse Photo: Bare kiwi

Overlooking natural waterways & breath taking Pacific ocean vistas, we offer the most tranquil and relaxing settings among the East Cape hotels.

Join our caring and informed staff as you are whisked away from the hustle and bustle of noise and clatter and find yourself surrounded by nature and beauty unsurpassed and untouched.

5198 Te Araroa Road PO Box 22011 Hicks Bay 4054 +646 864 4880 stay@hicksbaymotel.co.nz www.hicksbaymotel.co.nz

A drive to the National Arboretum at Eastwoodhill will take you through the spectacular Poverty Bay Flats, fertile countryside where much of the fresh produce grown in New Zealand comes from, not to mention the plethora of vineyards that make this a stunning drive. Gisborne has a reputation as a producer of fine wines and heading south on State Highway 2, you have the opportunity to experience this at any of the local wineries.

Just down the road, Rere Waterfall is a lovely spot to swim and picnic, while for the more adventurous the Rere Rockslide is sixty metres of sheer exhilaration.

Be sure to stop in at Morere Hot Springs to soak your travel weary bones in the thermal waters set amid 364 hectares of rainforest. Known for its therapeutic values and rare in the world of hot springs, it is a treat not to be missed.

Wairoa, “Long water” in Maori, is the southern gateway to Eastland and the gateway to the wilderness playground of Te Urewera. It extends over some 225,000 hectares and is the largest untouched native forest area remaining in the North Island. It is also home to one of the Great Walks of New Zealand, Lake Waikaremoana.

To plan your next escape, download the ‘Out East App’ free from Google Play and the App Store or visit www.EastlandTourism.co.nz.

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Come out and experience the wonderful East Coast region for yourself. Plan your next escape at www.thefirstlight.co.nz

Photo by Brett Cronin

www.thefirstlight.co.nz

W H A N G A N U I

Whanganui An abundantly creative culture

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hanganui is home to over 400 artists making the small city a vibrant and diverse place to visit and be.

The Whanganui School of Design, Quay School of the Arts, the School of Fashion and the Whanganui Glass School all developed and contributed to the richness of the arts community, galleries, studios and public art luring many artists and their families to take up residence and continue their craft in the river city.

DID YOU

KNOW

Whanganui sits on the western coast of the North Island and has a population of 43,800. Part of the Manawatu region, Whanganui is known for it's numerous landmarks and historic buildings. The Whanganui river which runs through the town is New Zealand's longest navigable waterway.

Today UCOL’s Whanganui campus is home to the School of Design and continues to nurture and train new artists and creators in visual arts including sculpture, photography, glass art and digital arts, graphic design and textile and fashion design. With this sort of environment it’s no wonder the art in all shapes and forms sidles up and stands square beside some of the most delightful heritage buildings and attractions in New Zealand.

The number of studios are growing and annually over 75 of these studios and galleries are open to the public during the Artists Open Studios event. It’s a favourite time of year as artists talk and share with visitors their inspirations, work in progress and finished works that are the result of hours of work. Very few visit without taking home something special to remind them of the enjoyment and atmosphere of being surrounded by beautiful objects, images and pieces that speak to them.

expand the original and iconic heritage building, the Gallery tells the story of an unrivalled bequest to the people of Whanganui.

The entire art collection consists of more than 8,000 works and archival items spanning four centuries of European and New Zealand art history. While not all on display the Gallery is currently located in a restored sleek and modern warehouse setting along the river bank. Regularly changing exhibitions ensure this is a place that can be revisted time and time again.

Always on the list is a visit to the New Zealand Glassworks, a gallery and hot glass studio with a viewing platform for the public to see the kilns and glass artists in action. It’s mesmerising and easy to spend a while observing and wondering at the skill that enables molten glass to take such a variety of shades and shapes.

Whether it’s old or new, there is always something to discover, a new artist, a new work or a familiar favourite. Street art and public sculptures merge the history, culture and community of the very special place that is Whanganui. Living and loving the creativity here every day.

The Sarjeant Gallery is synonymous with contemporary New Zealand art and recognised as a stand out regional art gallery.

Currently raising significant funds to earthquake strengthen and

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Cycling and cafes, art galleries and studios, beaches and river walks, music and laughter.

Big enough to entertain and small enough to keep it real.

Just right for friends and family. Come and spend a weekend.

C O R O M A N D E L

Spa at Soo es e Soul As golden autumn days give way to the freshness of the Coromandel winter, the crisp bright mornings and mild afternoons bring us to a gentler pace of life - and the time to restore ourselves with a winter escape to nourish body and soul

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ith that in mind, a couple of weekends ago, I left Tairua for The Lost Spring in Whitianga on a “daycation”, leaving schedules and devices at the door to catch up with friends, and abandon mundane affairs for the day.

Driving through the entrance you get the immediate feeling of a secluded paradise. If you didn’t know it was there behind the tropical gardens of the large estate, you would be unlikely to stumble upon this hidden gem. The muted sound of running water and the soothing ambient light from the adjacent pool greet you as you enter the reception area. Plush and luxuriously soft robes and spa slippers

are on hand to take you from the changing rooms to the pools.

But first, a detour up the stairs to the Tree Top Day Spa. These specially-designed luxe bures high in the tropical foliage surrounding the natural thermal pools offer the ultimate in privacy and seclusion and an opportunity to enjoy one of the many spa rituals on offer.

The range of therapies and beauty treatments at The Lost Spring Day Spa is extensive and covers most traditions. The “Rainforest Retreat” catches my eye from the delectably-named spa menu items-a combination of a warm oil massage and nourishing facial

In our

Geo-Thermal Pools, Day Spa & Restaurant

C O R O M A N D E L

with the special Pure Fiji natural beauty therapies. These products are (fittingly) from the South Pacific, crafted from uniquely Fijian plant extracts including deep sea plants, tropical fruits, flowers and nuts.

The muted sound of running water and the soothing ambient light from the adjacent pool greet you as you enter the reception area.

CREEK

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The thermal waters of The Lost Spring originating deep below the earth, flow through the connected pools to provide a gradient of temperatures and a bathing warmth for all preferences.

New Zealand's only narrow-gauge mountain railway travels through regenerating native forest with pottery sculptures lining the track

DR IV IN G

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All smelling as delicious as the softly-scented surrounds. The large window slides silently down and the watery sounds from the pool below add to the restful white noise as I drift away. Feeling relaxed and drowsy, it is then downstairs to re-join my companions. Time for a long soak, a catch up and a poolside cocktail.

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Enjoy a 1 hour return trip on this scenic narrow gauge mountain railway.

Travel through regenerating & replanted native kauri forest where unique pottery sculptures line the track.

The train includes 2 spirals, 3 short tunnels, 5 reversing points & several large viaducts as it climbs up the hill to the EyeFull Tower.

Att the top the there are e panoramic views out over Gulf. the island-studded Hauraki Gul

Suitable for all ages & weather conditions.

380 Driving Creek Road, Coromandel 3506 Just 3 km north of Coromandel Town FP: 0800 327 245 Ph: (07) 866 8703 International Ph: +64 7 866 8703 Reservations: bookings@dcrail.nz

www.dcrail.nz

Go Travel NZ ¡ Winter 2017

It is easy to find a secluded spot overlooked by other guests where we can catch up and importantly, leave undisturbed the couples and solitary bathers seeking complete tranquility and privacy.

DID YOU

KNOW

Although submerged to our necks in restorative natural spring water, it is good to rehydrate, and the fruit cocktails and smoothies do the trick. Whiling away the afternoon is no problem, as time seems to stand still at The Lost Spring.

The Coromandel peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and iconic coastlines you'll find anywhere in NZ. With a population of 26,178, visitors and locals alike enjoy the majestic sights at Cathedral Cove, or digging your own hot pool on Hot Water beach at low tide!

Eventually, hunger draws us from the pools, and we have decided to dine at the restaurant for the first time. We have often enjoyed cafĂŠ meals and tapas by the pool, but it is time to sample the dinner menu. Two platters keep us engaged sampling the local treats on offer, and as our mains are delivered the reception is animated.

The flavour of the dishes lives up to their spectacular presentation.

Locals had told us The Lost Spring has one of the best kitchens in town, and we were not disappointed. Between seven of us, we were able to enjoy a good range from the menu, with not one miss.

photograph (for Instagram, of course) the near full moon against the black-blue sky suspended over a glimmer of azure waters framed by soft fronds now lit from below. Then off into the cool dark air for the short drive home, wishing we had booked accommodation for the night. Our two Auckland friends could have come on the ferry for the weekend. Next time! A mini-break at The Lost Spring will be on the agenda again for this group, for sure.

Plate-sharing is mandatory it seems, as everyone is keen to sample the offerings based on fresh seasonal produce. Relaxed, warm and content, we take one last climb to the decks above the pools to

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W A I K A T O

Middle Ear D OWN U N D ER

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obbiton Movie Set is an experience to tantalise the senses of visitors from all across the globe, as guests find themselves engulfed in the sights, smells, sounds and tastes of The Shire, at the home of the Hobbits, as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies.

The extraordinary following that the movies have amassed has led to our tours becoming a ‘must see’ while travellers are in New Zealand.

The Hobbiton Movie Set is the only set that remains intact from the trilogies, and that allows our visitors to fully immerse themselves in the wonders of The Shire.

Visitors are given the once in a lifetime opportunity to see an iconic movie set in its full glory; from wandering the rambling paths of The Shire, to seeing the submerged Hobbit Holes that litter the rolling hillsides.

Your guide will then escort you around the set, showing you the intricate detailing, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how the movie magic was made.

You will be taken around the 12 acre set; past Hobbit Holes, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you can sample our exclusive, specially brewed beverages to conclude your own Middle-earth adventure.

B A Y

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P L E N T Y

Share Nature’s Best at Comvita T

here’s no shortage of natural resources and attractions to admire in the Bay of Plenty but if you want to see how powerful nature really is, head straight to Comvita.

The manuka honey manufacturer’s headquarters are in Paengaroa, about half way between Tauranga and Whakatane. Here you’ll discover the world of the honeybee - one of the most impressive, hard-working creatures on our planet.

Without their pollination services, we wouldn’t have any fruit, vegetables, grains or seeds to eat. And the manuka honey they produce here in New Zealand is now sought-after worldwide for its incredible anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Guided tours through Comvita’s visitor centre are held at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, seven days a week. They’re suitable for all ages and take about 40 minutes.

Your sight, smell, hearing and taste buds will all be put to the test as you walk through an indoor forest and UV-lit manuka grove where everything is super-sized to illustrate our world from a honeybee’s perspective. Enjoy nibbling on crunchy granules of dried pollen and sample a sweet spoonful of golden honey along the way.

Comvita’s own ‘virtual beehive’ is a specially-heated room decorated with hexagonal walls to replicate life inside a busy beehive.

Thanks to your personal tour guide, video clips and information panels, you’ll soon be an ‘expert’ in honeybees.

Did you know a honeybee’s wings beat 200 times a second? Or that it can collect twice its body weight in pollen?

They also have five eyes and can smell through their feet.

Another highlight is putting on Comvita’s virtual reality headset to check on the honey season’s progress in the North Island’s Kaimanawa Forest.

Don’t forget to treat yourself to a delicious manuka honey ice-cream at Comvita’s café, and check out their full selection of health and skincare products before you leave.

A U C K L A N D

Sharing STORIES OFTHE SEA

Even on a cloudy day there is nothing like taking a cruise out on the water ...

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We continue through the museum and learn about the first Europeans, mass immigration and the ships and conditions that brought them to New Zealand. One of the neat features is the replica sleeping quarters of a 19th century sailing ship which moves and rocks to mimic conditions at sea. You could hear the creaking as you stood on the moving floor looking at the bunks where a whole family would have slept for up to 3 months.

nd it’s a bonus if you can also learn about New Zealand’s seafaring history while you’re at it.

The New Zealand Maritime Museum sits on the Viaduct Harbour in Auckland and is a lot bigger on the inside than it looks.

After booking myself on a heritage sailing on the museum’s scow Ted Ashby, I begin my visit with a guided tour - which is free with museum entry. Guided tours run twice a day every weekday at 10.30am and 1pm. Don is my guide and takes our small but eager group through to the first gallery, aptly named Landfalls. Don regales us with an informative conversation about the first Polynesian and European explorers. The gallery is full of canoes, outriggers and other vessels which us modern travellers have a difficult time imagining as a safe form of open ocean voyaging!

One of the brilliant things about the Maritime Museum is that all of their tour guides and sailing crew are volunteers. They are all passionate about the museum, it’s history and vessels.

We carry on through galleries featuring whaling and ferries and hit the crème de la crème for yachting enthusiasts—the Blue Water Black Magic gallery. This gallery serves as a tribute to Sir Peter Blake, commemorating his life and work, including the America’s Cup challenges and defences among others. Dominating the area is the 1995 America’s Cup winning yacht the NZL32 Black Magic.

This vessel is so large that the museum was extended and the extension was built around the winning vessel. The gallery is particularly interactive, and the group had plenty of fun building digital yachts, learning how to sail (or in my case sink) effectively, as well as working with a team to sail a yacht.

This is evident with Don and how thoroughly he knows the country’s maritime history and the museum’s collection. While some might think the Maritime Museum is only for boat lovers, the museum is clearly focussed on sharing stories of the sea.

Other interesting parts of the museum included the traditional Kiwi bach, which is a New Zealand beach house, a navigational room with a special acoustical quality and the temporary gallery which rotates contemporary art exhibitions every four to six months.

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

DID YOU

KNOW

The Auckland region is New Zealand's most populated, with a population of over 1.46 million.

Between it's West Coast beaches, beautiful Waiheke Island and the vibrant life, Auckland has it all. Auckland has the highest percentage of boat owners per capita in the world.

With the fascinating tour over I say goodbye to Don and hello to an hour on the Waitemata Harbour (Auckland Harbour). While I am going on the scow Ted Ashby, the museum has another two working vessels to choose from.

The museum recently spent five years restoring the WWI hospital motor launch Nautilus. This adorable little gem fits eight passengers and runs passengers every Monday. The other cute little vessel is steam boat SS Puke. More than 100 years old, she fits five and can be seen steaming around the Viaduct Harbour on regular weekend trips.

But back to Ted. At first we motor out of the museum’s marina but as soon as we hit the open water passengers are asked to help hoist the sails. It’s a beautiful day with a slight breeze - just enough to propel us towards the Auckland Harbour Bridge at a comfortable speed.

The crew is keen to talk about the vessel and gives us a run-down of the harbour and a bit of history about scows and their various uses.

Ted Ashby is one of two working scows in the country. The vessel runs twice a day from Tuesday through Sunday from the museum.

And it’s a beautiful trip. We sail under the bridge, even seeing some bungy jumpers in process, and then head back to museum. The trip was a relaxing and scenic way to end my museum visit.

Anyone looking for a relaxing day of sailing and history should not miss the Maritime Museum. It’s certainly not just for those who enjoy boating—it’s so much more.

Cruise the beautiful bays of Kawau Island Only scheduled ferry service to Kawau Island Water Taxi Service 24/7 Sailings to surrounding islands in the Hauraki Gulf Ferry to Beach House Resort on Kawau Island

Cruise the beautiful bays of Kawau island dropping mail off to the locals as we gain a rare glimpse into life on an island that has no roads. Watch Gannets diving for food and don’t forget to keep a eye out for dolphins and penguins.

It combines a 2-hour cruise with optional on board BBQ lunch & 1.5-hour island stop over. Enjoy your island stop where you can visit Mansion House Museum, or take one of many walks to historic sites whilst watching Kawau’s wildlife.

This is a great way for locals and travellers alike to combine a cruise and island visit with nature, history and a fun day out for the whole family. *bookings are essential, for return times please call and enquire.

Also servicing for Beach House Resort, Weddings, Charters, Anniversaries and Corporate Functions

0800 111 616 www.kawaucruises.co.nz info@kawauwatertaxis.co.nz

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Jet Park HOTELS

Jet Park

AIRPORT HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE E

Jet Park HOTEL ROTORUA

T E N PLA ELD

W SKI FI O R O O N D S AND’S ONLY IN AL NEW ZE

Snow Life’s more fun on

Snowboard and ski your heart out - all year round

Having been a keen surfer for the last 10 years, the evolution to snowboarding was a natural and logical progression.

I'd heard excellent reports of Snowplanet, and was excited to visit.

I booked a 'First Timers Pack' for $99, which included a twohour 'snow pass' and a 50 minute lesson with a professional teacher. They also provided me with all the equipment I needed, like a snowboard, boots and helmet - seemed like great value.

I had called ahead and they advised to wear some suitable waterproofing clothing (like gloves and jackets).

Initially, I was blown away by the scale of the impressive indoor resort. I put on my (surprisingly) comfortable snowboard boots, and headed up to the beginner slope. With some very useful tips from my instructor, combined with some previous board skills, I was riding in no time.

The teacher made me feel really relaxed and provided helpful instructions. I was linking turns and feeling confident with only a few small bails while I found my feet. Although I've never been on real snow, it felt exactly how I imagined.

I took a quick break at the on-site 7 Summits Restaurant for a tasty snack and coffee, before heading back out there. I still had an hour to myself, which I took full advantage of.

Having had no previous skiing experience, I left Snowplanet with a real sense of accomplishment. I'll definitely be back for some more training before hitting the mountains.

With lots of other activities on site (like snow tubing) and a terrain park for intermediate/experts, I'd highly recommend everyone to visit Snowplanet.

And it's open 365 days a year!

91 Small Rd, Silverdale, Auckland | 0800 SNOWPLANET

www.snowplanet.co.nz

N O R T H L A N D

FUN IN THE

Far Nor Uncover the beauty of this vast, untouched region

W

e checked in at Auckland Airport, met by a bubbly young man by the name of Hayden. He said, “you’re the last to check in, so if it suits you, we will look at boarding 5 minutes early”. He directed us to the Retro Espresso Coffee caravan, where we got a discount by showing our Barrier Air Boarding pass.

Winning!

view as we climbed out was a thing of absolute beauty. The Sun was out the left side of the plane setting behind the Manukau Heads.

Out of the right was Auckland City and the harbour was swimming in orange light.

We continued the trek up towards the Far North. It was a clear night and once the dark set in we could see the lights from Whangarei, Kaikohe and Kerikeri. Not too long later we heard Ken over the PA.

Coffee in hand we boarded through the regional gates. We rounded the corner to Gate 49 where another young man in yellow high viz met us and walked us to the aircraft. We boarded through the back of the plane and slid past 4 rows of Leather seats up to the Row 1 bench seat (right behind the pilot). Our pilot introduced himself as Ken. He welcomed us all and began his safety briefing, pointing out the exits and how to operate the seat belts. He told us about the flight route, weather and what we should expect. We took off at 6:15pm and the

“We are starting our descent into Kaitaia. Weather in Kaitaia is calm with little wind and a chilly 10 Degrees on the ground.

The weather tomorrow is forecast to be excellent and with that in mind enjoy the far north”. 15 minutes later we were on the ground.

A glance at my watch told me take off to touch down took a little over an hour.

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Go Travel NZ · Winter 2017

We had booked a rental car with Northland Rentals and were met by one of their staff on arrival. As it was already 7:30pm he got us on our way quickly and we were off to the Motel to check in.

Four bottles of water, a bottle of sunblock and a bag of Pineapple lumps later, we were in the car on the way to 90 Mile beach.

We hit Shipwreck bay with a pizza and sat in the sun for lunch. The Beginner surfers were out in the SW swells which made for good watching. Some locals told us a four-wheel drive will get us to some better surf spots however I don’t think our small rental could take it.

We found Kaitaia Motor Lodge online. They were quite cheap which suited us! We dropped our bags off to the room and after some quick banter with Mary and Peter at the Motel, we were off to the Beach Comber for steak and a drink.

We continued north, only stopping at Waitiki Tourist centre for a last fuel up - a couple of cold drinks and massive three-scoop ice creams to battle the heat!

Friday morning we had a bit of work to take care of. Fortunately our meetings were wrapped up by 11am, giving us time for an impromptu day trip in the Far North.

Cape Reinga wasn’t much further. There were countless busses and tourist already there. I spent some time walking around reading the plaques on the descent down to the lighthouse. The views were

Thankfully, I had the foresight to pack shorts, Jandels and a tee shirt.

For the rest of our roadie supplies ,Tom and I hit the main street.

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N O R T H L A N D

phenomenal, with the ocean reaching out on all sides and on a day like today you can’t help but stop and take a moment.

After offering to take some group photos for some of the tourists, Tom sparked up a conversation with some backpackers from Germany. After swapping some travel tales and what’s on the cards next, somehow we all ended up on the road to the Great Dunes to try out sand boogie-boarding. Knowing nothing about this we were lucky that it was easily signposted and there were plenty of places to

hire Boards. It cost us $15 for the board hire. After a few runs down some very steep dunes it was easy to see that it was money well spent!

The day was getting on so Tom and I were back in the car to Kaitaia.

Pete and Mary at the Motor lodge were nice enough to hold our bags for the day. Thanking them we collected our gear, picked up some dinner from Kai Thai and made our way back to the airport for Barrier Air GB620 back to Auckland.

WELCOME TO BARRIER AIR

regular flights from great barrier island, auckland, north shore and kaitaia Auckland

Great Barrier Island - Claris

Flight per week: 42 Flight time: 30 mins

Auckland

Kaitaia

Flight per week: 21 Flight time: 1 hour

North Shore

Great Barrier Island - Claris

Flight per week: 20 Flight time: 30 mins

Auckland

Great Barrier Island - Okiwi

Flight per week: Seasonal Demand and Upon Request Flight time: 30 mins

North Shore

Great Barrier Island - Okiwi

Flight per week: Seasonal Demand and Upon Request Flight time: 30 mins

0800 900 600 | reservations@barrierair.kiwi | www.barrierair.kiwi

From humble beginnings operating flights between Chatham Islands & mainland New Zealand Air Chathams has grown into the country’s largest privately owned airline with over 80 scheduled services every week across 6 route networks.

O P E R AT I N G SINCE

1984

Craig Emeny has built the airline around going the extra mile for customers and providing them with a reliable, safe air service that has enabled the regions we service to grow and develop. Prior to Air Chathams the lucrative live rock lobster market was non-existent from the Chatham Islands, and today we export almost 400 tonne annually.

Air Chathams also operates a range of charter aircraft NZ wide with seating capacity from 18 to 50 passengers. We can position our fleet across the country to cater to your specific requirements.

Call the 0800 number below to request a quote.

AUCKLAND WHAKATANE WHANGANUI WELLINGTON

CHRISTCHURCH

CHATHAM & PITT ISLANDS