TNT New Zealand 92

IN THE FLESH Swimming with

bull sharks in Fiji

We head north to cruise around the sandy and adventurous Bay of IslandsROCK THE BOAT

WIN!A MAGIC ROADTRIP

ACROSS NEW ZEALAND

November 2012-January 2013 Issue 92 tntdownunder.com

+ WHAT’S ON QUEENSTOWN THRILLSMUSIC TRAVEL PHOTOS

Step by step on the Hobbit’s path

St b t th

JOURNEY TO MIDDLE EARTH

Phone 09 336 4286or www.kiwiexperience.com

The original Kiwi Experience, since 1989

100% awesome Kiwi Driver Guides

Stacks of inclusions and exclusive discounts

Get immersed in nature, adventure and kiwi culture

www.kiwiexperience.com

Hot Water Beach, New Zealand

3TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

FEATURES

SCREAM QUEEN 6Queenstown is the place to go if you want to throw yourself off something tall

ALT OK 18The young English band talk to us about coming south of the equator

WHOLE HOBBIT 30We look at the long and the short of all Hobbit related places in New Zealand

BAYS OF WONDER 36Enjoying all that the north island has to offer, including the Bay of Plenty

KNIGHT DIVES 40We explore some of the worlds best diving spots, the Poor Knight Islands

SHARKING MAD 44We head to Fiji and watch some locals hand feed bull sharks in the water

TRIVIAL PURSUITS 74Hope you’ve boned up on your Tolkein knowledge else you might blow a ring

THIS WEEK

EDITOR’S LETTER

Here at TNT we like to do things heads fi rst, so it’s no surprise we kick off our summer edition by jumping off a bridge in Queenstown. We then burrow down and follow the Hobbit path across the country; rock the boat as we cruise around the stunning Bay of Islands; hand feed some bull sharks in Fiji; dive with royalty in the Northland area and chat to UK band Alt-J. Who said summer was relaxing?

ALEX HARMON EDITOR [email protected]

6

44

36

NZ DIARY 4

HOT SHOTS 22

TRAVEL 24

COMPETITION 28

LISTINGS TRANSPORT 51

LISTINGS NORTH ISLAND 54

LISTINGS SOUTH ISLAND 64

LISTINGS TRAVELLING ON 72

TRIVIAL PURSUITS 74

30

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follow us on @tnt_downunderNZDIARY

THE MAIN EVENTCOROMANDEL GOLD FESTIVAL OHUKA FARM

$90 With the Auckland leg of the Big Day Out cancelled, New Zealand’s answer to Harvest Festival promises to be one of 2013’s biggest shows of its kind in the Land of the Long

White Cloud. Featuring a decidedly homegrown vibe of dub, roots and rock acts including Katchafi re, Fat Freddy’s Drop and Shihad offset by some massive international acts like Del La Soul and Australian act Cut Copy all bringing in the New Year, why not join the party?

Dec 30 - Jan 1 Ohuka Farm, Whitianga coromandelgold.co.nz

TNT Magazine is printed on paper from sustainable forests. There is no business connection between

the proprietors of this magazine and TNT Ltd, the worldwide transportation group. TNT Magazine does not assume responsibility for unsolicited submissions – material is sent at the owner’s risk. TNT Magazine accepts advertising material and other contributions in good faith, and takes no responsibility for claims, errors or omissions. Copyright here and abroad of all original materials is held by TNT Magazine. Reproduction in whole or part is forbidden, except with permission of the publishers.

EDITORIAL Editor Alex HarmonStaff writer Hugh RadojevContributors Marie Barbierl, Jahn Vannisselroy, Andrew Westbrook Intern Amelia Gray

DESIGN AND PRODUCTIONDesign and production manager Lisa Ferron

SALES Account manager Justin SteinlaufSales executive Caroline Ward

MARKETING & EVENTS Business development manager Tom Wheeler

ACCOUNTS Financial controller Trish BaileyAccountant Hannah Waters

TNT MULTIMEDIA LTDCEO Kevin Ellis Chairman Ken Hurst

PUBLISHER TNT Multimedia LimitedPRINTED BY Rural Press PICTURES Getty Images | Thinkstock | TNT Images | Tourism New Zealand | Tourism FijiTNT Magazine, 126 Abercrombie Street, Chippendale, Sydney, NSW, 2008, Australiatntdownunder.comGeneral enquiries Phone +61 2 8332 7500 Fax +61 2 9690 1314Email [email protected]

SALES ENQUIRIES

PHONE +61 2 8332 7511EMAIL [email protected] TO GET TNT

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

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COROMANDEL DIVE FEST

FREE What better way to celebrate the start

of summer than with a three day dive festival? A jam-packed program of events, including an underwater photography competition, cray hunt, picnics and a team scuba “Olympics” round it off.

Nov 30 - Dec 2 Whitianga aucklandinternationalcarnival.co.nz

TOAST MARTINBOROUGH

$70 Award winning wine, gorgeous local

food and live music – what more could you want in a festival? The wineries are within shouting distance of one another so pass the spit bucket and drink up. No need to drive as the festival provides free shuttle buses.

September 21-23 Various, Martinborough toastmartinborough.com

INTERNATIONAL RODEO

$20 Put on your cowboy hat and boot

scootin’ shoes - it’s time for the indoor international rodeo wrangler. Watch the best of the best, whilst sipping and listening to popular Kiwi rock’n’roll. Back in 2012 by popular demand.

29 Nov Claudelands Arena, Hamilton article.wn.com

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like us on facebook/tnt downunder

DRAGON BOAT REGATTA

$75 Experience the colour, noise and

up–close excitement of dragon boat racing in the ‘ice-breaker’ event. Plenty of free viewing from the grassy banks around the man-made lake at Pegasus Town. This start of the season event is the one to watch.

Dec 4 Christchurch aoraki-dragons.co.nz

SUMMERDAZEFESTIVAL

FREE A month long festival with the

signature celebration being the New Year’s Eve event. Held on the lake front between Queenstown and Wanaka with great lineups of live music and fi reworks. Also worth checking out is the kite festival.

Dec 31-Jan 31 Queenstown Lakes District summerdaze.co.nz

FAR NORTH RODEO

$10 Good rural fun in the real far north of New Zealand. It’s in the peak of the good weather, which means it’s very

likely to be baking hot, so be sure to take plenty of water with you. Featured events will include Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing, Team Roping, Saddle Bronc, and of course, the ever popular Bull Riding. An adult ticket on the gate will cost $10, while children under 18 come in free.

Jan 2 Kaitaia Showgrounds [email protected]

Phot

os: G

etty

Imag

es

like us on facebook/tntdownunder

KIWIBURN EVENT 2013

FREE An annual festival similar to the

better known Burning Man in the US. The idea is that the audience are participants in the confl agration. With installations, performers almost anything goes. No money is ever exchanged.

Jan 18-23 Whakamaru Domain kiwiburn.com

ENDLESS SUMMER FEST

FREE The Urupukapuka Islands idyllic

Otehei Bay is celebrating summer by hosting a series of concerts by original artists, cover bands and DJs. Transport is provided by explore NZ, the ferry costs $40 return. Rock up and get down.

Jan 7-29 Otehei Bay oteheibay.co.nz

NZDIARY

LANEWAY AUCKLAND

$134 The St Jerome Laneway Festival returns to Auckland for another year bringing some of the

most interesting and sought after alternative, indie and electronic acts from both home and abroad. Street Chant will be leading the Kiwi contingent whilst American chill-wavers Yeasayer will be headlining. Laneway Festival has developed a reputation amongst artists and audiences alike as one of the coolest around.

Jan 28 Silo Park, Auckland auckland.laneway.com

ANNUAL HIGHLAND GAMES

The Waipu Games is the largest event of its kind in New Zealand. Come along and see traditional

dancing, piping, drumming, fi eld events, athletics, music, culture, heritage and much more. Also Tartan in the Park, now into its sixth year, is a segment for the fashion conscious clan members who can fi nd a use for Tartan, which is an often much maligned fabric.

Jan 2 Caledonian Park, Waipu waipugames.org.nz

$16

You know you’re in for some fun when the fl ight to Queenstown is full of excited twenty-somethings ready for action. Even more so when the fl ight takes a turbulent turn and these excitable youngsters start to cheer.

Queenstown is a thrill-seeker’s paradise. As you descend into town, the downdrafts from the Remakables Mountain range cause planes to dip up and down, like a rollercoaster. In winter, you’ll witness stunning ice-capped mountains and Lord of the Rings-style scenery, which will avert your eyes from the air-hostesses who literally bounce around the cabins.

The town is built around the deep

blue Lake Wakatipu and is famous for adventure activities: mountain biking, jet boating, whitewater rafting and, of course, bungy jumping. You’ll spot the tourists easily – bungy protocol means you must have your weight brandished on your hand in red marker. The truly brave are marked like livestock cattle.

There’s a great mix of bars in the heart of town, dotted around the cobbled lanes. After a few après-ski drinks, you could almost think you were in Europe. There are heaps of backpacker bars where you can get lost amongst a sea of different nationalities on an organised pub crawl.

Queenstown has the highest bar-

to-person ratio in New Zealand and it’s no surprise, given that what goes up must come down. You’ll most likely be drinking with a bungy jumper, who will want to tell you their own ‘unique’ version of events.

Another Queenstown institution, although not heart-thumping (more heart-stopping) is Fergburger. Here you’ll fi nd the best burgers in town and the joint is always packed, whether it’s lunch time or midnight.

There is so much to do in this little town, so make sure you sample a few things on the thrill seeker’s menu. After all, it’s all about the bragging rights you’ll return home with.

Rushing roulette Whether it’s jumping off bridges or rolling down hills, Queenstown is the city that never sleeps, or ceases to give you the creepsWORDS ALEX HARMON

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www.bungy.co.nz

NEVIS BUNGY

NEVIS SWING11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333333334444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444 mmmmmmeeeettrrrreess

ttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttthhhhhhhhhhhhheeeeeeeee wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooorrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd’ssssss biggest swing

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CANYON SWING BY DAMIAN HALL

I’m hanging upside down in a position known as ‘The Gimp Goes To Hollywood’, 109m above Queenstown’s Shotover River. A long cord reaches from my harness to the middle of the canyon, where it’s attached to another cord stretching across the great divide. A much shorter cord attaches me to a platform. There’s a release mechanism on the shorter cord, which is about to be utilised. It’s hard to explain exactly what goes through your head. But it’s something like this: Aaaaarrgrgghhh. I’m going to dieeeee. This is amazinggggggg. Heeeeeeelllllp. I don’t want this to stoppppp. Stopppp ... And then I do. The fall turns into a long, relaxing swing across the canyon. And I feel sensational. Invincible. Loved-up with life.Damage & Details: Prices from $199. Spectators are $20. See canyonswing.co.nz

FUNYAK SAFARI BY JAMES BESANVALLE

Take this amazing journey deep into the Mt Aspiring National Park and let the friendly guides and lively commentaries lead the way as you peruse the great rivers and wilderness Queenstown has to offer. Your ‘Funyak’ is a bright red infl atable canoe and you’ll be cruising along the channels of the Dart River as well as hidden side streams, rock pools and dramatic chasms. Make sure you pack appropriately during each season but always remember to bring a hat and sunscreen because you’ll be outdoors for the whole day. Don’t worry about what you’ll eat during the day either, time is provided along the safari for a light meal in Glenorchy. Then travel a back-country route passing by scenes used in the Lord of the Rings movies to illustrate Middle Earth. Damage & Details: Prices from $299. See: dartriver.co.nz

LEDGE BUNGY BY ALEX HARMON

This is the bungy for people who don’t like to be tied down in life. Instead of wrapping your legs up in rope and waddling to the edge of a bridge, the Ledge Bungy puts you in a harness with your legs free to do the running. This allows you the freedom to run towards the edge of the ledge and launch yourself 400 metres over Queenstown. You can take off in whichever way you desire. Dive headfi rst, somersault, backfl ip, pin drop, or if you’re like me, run like a maniac and launch into the cool mountain air with your arms fl ailing in the air. It’s the most liberating of bungy’s and possibly the most pleasing on the eye. The stunning Remarkable mountains and the deep blue Lake Wakatipu provide a calming effect before you throw yourself off the edge. Located at the top of the Skyline Gondola, if you chicken out, at least you can say you’ve come for the view. Oh, and you can do this bad-boy at night.Damage & Details: Prices start at $180. See: bungy.co.nz

SKYDIVE BY JAMES BESANVALLE

There’s nothing like jumping from an aircraft at 15,000 feet and landing on the ground without a scratch. The adrenalin couldn’t fl ow more with another activity. Harnessed to an experienced ‘Jumpmaster’, you’ll plummet for over 60 seconds at a rate of 200km/h. You’ll land on the ground safely as your mind remains in the clouds for days to come. The best part about Skydiving is telling people that you’ve done it and seeing their eyebrows rise at the sound of your hardcore life. And if they don’t believe you, NZone offers fantastic photo or video packages so you can look back on your achievement and proud of it for years to come. “Embrace the fear” as you overcome an experience that you’ll never forget. Once you’ve jumped you’ll join an exclusive club (I guess you could call it a mile high club?) that will be the envy of your friends. Skydive TED has taken the plunge – you have no excuse not to try it! Damage & Details: Skydive with NZone in Queenstown. Prices start from $179. See: nzone.biz

Brecon Street, Queenstown, NZskyline.co.nzFLUID12023

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GONDOLA AND LUGE BY JAMES BESANVALLE

This combo offers breathtaking panoramic views from high above the great city. You’ll be able to see the beautiful lake and the Remarkable Mountains on your way up. The 220 degree panorama view of Queenstown is the best seat in town so you don’t want to miss out on taking a few snaps among the teetering heights. The luge ride back down to the bottom of the cliff side is a thrilling experience that you simply cannot miss. Zoom down on your choice of three tracks and make sure you hold on tight. Don’t close your eyes on the way down if you’re scared because then you’ll miss the spectacular ground views. Once you’re done with the track you chose, jump back on the chairlift to the top and ride the other two tracks you didn’t try. Damage & Details: Prices from $26. skylineskyrides.co.nz

SHOTOVER JET BY JAMES BESANVALLE

If action and adventure are your style, Shotover Jet has just the right amount for you. You’ll race down the Shotover River Canyons and perform exhilarating 360 degree spins all along the way. The Shotover Jet offers both adventure and scenic views, as you zoom down the canyon, twisting and turning in every direction. It has become somewhat of a right of passage for tourists to complete the Shotover Jet experience and has been branded ‘the fabric of what is quintessentially’ New Zealand. Don’t wear any dressy clothes because you’ll probably be soaked from head to toe by the time you’re done. ‘The World’s Most Exciting Jet Boating Ride’ never disappoints and will defi nitely be the highlight to your vacation. Damage & Details: Prices from $129. See: shotoverjet.com

The best rush in Queenstown

+ I’ve tried them all

George Gunn, UK“

“

Let us take you on an unexpected journey

Get involved with nature in the World Heritage area of Mount Aspiring National Park and experience ‘New Zealand’s most sensational journey’. The Funyak Safari includes an animating jet boat ride, unique Funyak adventure and a wilderness buffet lunch. Book now on Freephone 0800 327 853 or visit our website.

www.dartriverjetsafaris.com

DART RIVER JET

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NEVIS BUNGY BY DAMIAN HALL

I looked down at the bundle of fl imsy string in my hand and chuckled. Sometimes this Kiwi humour goes straight over my head. My harness fi tter turned to me: “I don’t know why you’re laughing. That’s the only thing stopping you from smashing into the canyon fl oor”. When you’re 134 metres above ground in a swaying cable car though, there’s not really a back door to slip out of, so I muttered some Hail Mary’s and waddled towards the platform. I’d been relatively calm until then, but with my toes dangling over the edge and the wind picking up, the adrenalin rush I was craving burst into life. My pre-planned ‘swan dive’ was more of an ‘ostrich bomb’ and I gracelessly plummeted face-fi rst towards a jagged rock fl oor that didn’t exactly scream ‘bouncy’. While I’d done bungys before, this sensation was like nothing else.Damage & Details: Prices from $260. See: bungy.co.nz

SNOWBOARDING AT CARDRONA BY ALEX HARMON

‘Aotearoa’ is the Maori word for New Zealand, which roughly translates as “the land of the long white cloud” and on the heavenly Cardrona slopes in Wanaka, the description couldn’t be more apt. Although it’s September and the end of the ski season, the snow hasn’t waned. I look around in amazement, it’s white as far as the eye can see. Once we’re boarded up we wait at the chair lifts to be given the all clear by the snow offi cials. We slide our boards along, making the fi rst tracks of the day. I’m not a very good snowboarder, by any means, but I spend the day with the Christmas carol, “walking in a winter wonderland” in my head. The snow is so thick and powdery that my falls are cushioned, and the turns I manoeuvre make me feel like I’m surfi ng in soft waves, or, perhaps, a long white cloud. Damage & Details: Lift passes from $60. See: cardrona.com

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RESERVATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL Shotover River Base, Arthurs Pt, Queenstown Phone: 0800 SHOTOVER Email: [email protected] Web: www.shotoverjet.com

TM

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KAWARAU BRIDGE BUNGY BY ALEX HARMON

No trip to Queenstown would be complete without visiting the world home of bungy at the Kawarau Bungy Centre. It was right here, in 1988, that commercial bungy jumping began. The K-Bridge, as it’s known, is located at the gateway to Queenstown. It’s a hangout for those voyeuristic people that like to watch bungy jumpers throwing themselves off bridges. “This is better than sex,” a young guy says to me as he stands on the edge of the bridge. I’m next in line to jump and I’m sitting on the wooden fl oor, my feet tied together, yet still shaking. I try not to look over the edge, instead focusing on the spectacular mountains and the sun piercing the river below. Something tells me that his experience with sex is not unlike the bungy. A whole lot of nerves and high expectations – but over very quickly. You can choose to dangle above the water, touch it or be fully dunked. It’s quite chilly when I’m there so I take the dry option. Before I know it, I’m being forced to waddle over to the edge like a duck, yelling, “I can’t walk!” Sensing my fear, the bungy masters are kind and slowly count backwards from three before I stretch my arms out like Jesus on the cross and fall forward. The blood rushes to my head and I hold my breath, frozen in position, not even able so scream. Until – bounce – I reach the length of the rope’s tether and realise I have survived. It’s now time to scream, and I do so for several minutes. Damage & Details: Prices start at $180. See: bungy.co.nz

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$20 to spend on any DVD or clothing product

at Skydive Lake Wanaka, with this voucher!

TN

QUEENSTOWN

TNT PARTY8th Sept 2012

Email us at [email protected] with ‘Spotted’ in the subject line, email must include a photo of yourself! Boom - You’ve won yourself 2 double passes to a NZ Big Night Out

Like us on facebook/tntdownunder for more party pics from the night!

ARE YOU SPOTTEDIN THE CIRCLE?WIN

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his heavy metal. Gus (guitar/bass) was a chorister in his local choir. I grew up listening to a lot of Americana, stuff like Steely Dan, Laurel Canyon, that kind of stuff, the sort of stuff my parents listened to. Gwil, (keyboards/vocals) on the other hand, has only ever really listened to 1990s gangster rap. We all agree on certain things though – bands like Radiohead and Metronomy."

Considering this strange melting pot of musical infl uences and the fact that nobody, not even the band's most ardent fan, could possibly claim to have been listening to them much before 2011, Alt-J’s undeniably meteoric rise has come as a bit of a shock to everyone involved.

"We were all very proud of the album and we were all, I think, quite confi dent that people would like it. We’d had a good response with the single, Tessellate. But we defi nitely didn’t expect the kind of support that it has ended up getting. We have been very lucky, blessed even."

For a band of four young men to write a debut album that broke into the UK Top 40 charts in an era of modern music dominated by studio-produced, heavily stylised R’n’B artists and Justin Beiber is truly remarkable. The fact that their album went on to peak at #19 and they've just been nominated for a prestigious Mercury Award, beggars belief.

The album's huge success in the UK has propelled Alt-J onto some of music’s biggest stages, not just in their own country, but also in Europe and even across the Atlantic in America. Newman, however, is adamant that while all the touring has been benefi cial for Alt-J, they are a band who are still very much honing their craft.

"We’re still learning, we’re a young band and at the

Meet the delta forceThe Leeds-born band, Alt-J, who defy genre but got slapped with art-rock, talk the album and their unashamed desire to see Ramsey StreetWORDS HUGH RADOJEV

MUSICFOCUSlike us on facebook/tntdownunder

“ We all agree on bands like Radiohead and Metronomy ”

Ever since the Arctic Monkeys burst into the world's collective consciousness in 2002, the UK music media have spent the best part of a decade burdening young up and coming English bands with the dubiously benefi cial title of ‘the next big thing’. Alt-J, the latest in a long line of British outfi ts to have this milestone placed around their necks tick the boxes at fi rst glance. The band have trendy haircuts, wear fi tted jeans and spectacles, but perhaps most tellingly of all, they have a quirky, left of centre name. Alt-J take their handle from the ancient Greek symbol for delta but are known better by the keyboard command which generates this on a Macintosh computer. (Read: Δ). Yet if you look beyond the hype and listen to Alt-J, it quickly becomes apparent that the band are not an open and shut case. More questions are raised than initially answered.

The band’s debut album, An Awesome Wave, (which takes its name from Bret Easton Ellis’ seminal novel American Psycho) draws heavily from such a varied range of musical, cinematic and literary infl uences that it becomes almost impossible to fi t neatly into any existing genre or style.

Commonly used phrases like ‘indie’ or ‘alternative rock’ are dangerously limiting when used to describe a band with so broad a sonic palette, whilst ‘art rock’ – a particular favourite amongst critics when pressed for an apt description of Alt-J’s sound, distracts from an undeniable fact – it's not actually rock.

Songs on An Awesome Wave such as lead single Tessellate, the angular Dissolve Me, or the slipperier groove on Fitzspleasure are all fi rmly rooted in the kind of accessible pop music that people can easily recognise, and as a result, are built around sing-a-long chorus’ and extremely catchy hooks. When all is said and done, there is nothing particularly ‘rock’ about this album at all, certainly not in a traditional sense anyway.

Alt-J’s lead singer Joe Newman (top right) speaks freely and frankly of the various, and entirely disparate, infl uences that he and his three band mates have each brought to the album’s eclectic overall sound.

"Musical infl uences, where to start? Thom (drums) is into

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Alt-J will play the Laneway Festival on January 28 in Auckland. An Awesome Wave, is out now through

Infectious Music altjband.com

whilst he’s here. "I’ve always wanted to check out Ramsey Street," he says

with a laugh."Melbourne for Neighbours, sorted!"

Audiences might not know quite what to expect from Alt-J when they do get here,

but in an odd way it’s reassuring to hear that they won’t really know what to

expect either. "We've been working really hard for our trip down South,' Newman says determinedly. "Seeing as we've never been down that way before we really want to make a good impression, do something

special for the people who see us."We’ll be discovering together if Joe,

Gus, Gwil and Thom can make the live renditions of the songs found on An Awesome Wave half as interesting, exciting and thought-provoking as they appear on the record.

One can’t help but think they’ll get a wonderful reception. They might not be the next Arctic Monkeys, but Alt-J don't need to be, they’re a band who are incredibly comfortable in their own skin.

And that is wonderfully refreshing. ❚

Planking may have been last year but Alt-J are defi nitely 2012

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM20

moment we are just trying to get the album perfect live for the audience. What you’ll hear live is what you’ll be seeing us playing. There is no backing track, nothing to boost the sound. So we have to work incredibly hard on stage and it’s taking us awhile to get it all right."

That being said, it would seem that Alt-J are certainly not a band who will disappoint a live audience. Perhaps their most recent live success came when Alt-J played at this year's Reading and Leeds Festival, a highlight of the English summer season, surpassed only by the legendary Glastonbury.

"It’s always nice to play in Leeds," says Newman. "It’s not necessarily our home individually as people, but it is the band's home. It's where the band was born."

It was in 2007 that the four members who would go on to form Alt-J fi rst met whilst studying at Leeds University. Perhaps a clichéd genesis story for many bands, but one that seems to have a fruitful future ahead.

Alt-J will be coming Down Under for a tour, and over to New Zealand for the Laneway Festival in January, a place that none of the band members have ever visited before. Despite the hatefully long-haul fl ight that lies in store, Newman defi nitely seems to be looking forward to his fi rst visit down under. In fact he is not ashamed to admit his desire to do some of the more touristy things Alt-J

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HOTSHOTS follow us on @tnt_downunder

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RUNNER-UP

SUNDOWN SESSION Clara Paganardi, 26, Italy

CLARA SAYS: “I took this photo of the sunset at Carnavaron WA.”

WE SAY: “We loved the juxtaposition of colours and textures in this photo between the organe sunset and the shadowy fi gures in the foreground.”

RUNNER-UP

WINNER WINNER

HAPPY FEETMICHAEL SUTTON, 24, UK

MICHAEL SAYS: “This was taken on my recent trip to Antarctica. Best three weeks travelling so far!”

WE SAY: “What is there to say about this shot other than it’s fantastic! Love the composition of the shot; the majestic ice cliffs in the background, the beautiful water in the midground and, of course, the adorable little penguins in the foreground! Great work, Michael!”

Michael wins a Total Northland Pass for him and a friend from Magic Travellers Network (magicbus.co.nz), while runner-up Clara wins a Black Labyrinth rafting voucher from the Legendary Black Water Rafting Co (waitomo.com). Winners are chosen by the TNT team, with the editor’s decision being fi nal. To enter the next Hot Shots competition, send your best travel photos (300 dpi jpegs), along with your name, age, nationality and a description, to [email protected]

TWO NORTHLAND TOURSWIN

Depicting movement in still photography is, unsurprisingly, a diffi cult skill to master. Yet, it is possible, and, more than that, it adds another dimension to your photography. A well-staged shot of motion draws the viewer into the photo, as their eyes follow the perceived movement.Leaving the shutter open for longer allows more light in through the lens to capture the fl ow of a river or the trail of a brake light. Having said that, a simulation of movement can be achieved through careful framing, dynamic subject matter and the clever use of perspective. Play around, see what works best for you and your subject matter.

HOT TIPS: Motion

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TRAVELTIPS like us on facebook/tntdownunder

Each month our fave interview WINS a four-day Conservation Volunteers Australia experience. Email: [email protected].

WINCONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS AUSTRALIA EXPERIENCE

ON THE ROAD WITH

STEPHANIE MARBACHGermany

WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN IN NEW ZEALAND?Together with my partner I travelled all over the north and south island for about two months.

WHERE HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE? Defi nitely Stewart Island. It’s just gorgeous there, amazingly peaceful and reminded me so much of my favourite country Ireland.

MEET ANY NZ ANIMALS? I saw a Kiwi. After hunting for it evenings and mornings, I saw one just at the last second, before we had to leave. So lucky and so happy – what a cute cuddly looking awkward animal.

MOST OVER-RATED PLACE? Queenstown. Everybody told us we’d really like that place. We were a bit shocked because it was so common-looking and not special at all and just like back home. If you’re a party person I guess you might like it.

MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE?Hiking in Stewart Island: carrying only the most essential things along, sleeping in very basic huts and just being so close to nature there.

Q I’m looking to head to Christchurch but was wondering if the city is still

as vibrant as it used to be after the recent earthquakes? Warren Scales, UK

A The devastating earthquakes in February 2011 were truly a terrible disaster to befall

the hardy little city of Christchurch. The loss of life and infrastructure was a terrible blow to the city and the Canterbury region as a whole. It is important for tourists to know that the city is still alive and is very much worth checking out for a number of reasons still. Like any city struck by natural disaster of that magnitude the rebuilding process has been long and arduous but it has also offered unique and ingenious opportunities for local businesses to get back on their feet, and providing a service to tourists. Red Zone bus tours offer a comfortable and thought provoking tour of some of the worst affected areas of Christchurch’s CBD area. These tours represent not only an excellent way of learning what it was like to be in the city on the day but also see

how the city is rebuilding. The beautiful cathedral in the centre of town was also badly damaged and has been rebuilt in cardboard, which makes for quite a spectacle. The re: START mall project is also a wonderfully innovative way of getting local shops and businesses in the CBD back on their feet. The shops have been temporarily set up in shipping containers, which needs to be seen to be believed.

Q I’m in NZ in Autumn next year. Where is good to go? Elizabeth Joyce, Ireland

A Autumn is an ideal time to explore New Zealand, with beautiful clear days,

dustings of snow and none of the crowds that mob the big attractions. The bitter cold that hits the South Island is yet to arrive, providing perfect conditions for tramping and cycling. In Queenstown you’ll likely have the bungy ropes all to yourself. It might actually be the best time of year.

A mall in a shipping container – only in Christchurch

TRAVELTALK

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TNTDOWNUNDER.COM26

After a long, lonely winter, Louis DAI set out on a quest to fi nd a hot Swedish girl...

Want wet Swedish babes on your phone? Text BABE 21 to get skintily-clad Natasha. Text BABE 22 to help Helen take her top off...

For a long time now I’ve had a “soft spot” for Swedish girls, be

they wet or dry, clean or dirty. Last winter I spent too much time watching late night Australian TV, which is full of ads featuring gorgeous blondes writhing about on beds. So I decided to set out on an epic quest for my own BABE 21.

Where is the best place to fi nd Swedes in Australia? In the snowfi elds? Or sunning themselves on the Whitsundays?

I had to fi nd out, so I hired an old Toyota Prado and rallied a couple of similarly desperate friends. After a long drive north from Melbourne, our fi rst port of call was Jindabyne a small town in New South Wales, which is conveniently located near the snowfi elds.

There must be at least a couple of Swedes here, we thought, as we pulled

up to the hostel. The next day we explored 675,000

hectares of Kosciuszko National Park. I climbed mountains and I plundered through the snow but still there were no Swedes to be found.

So we turned the 4WD north and headed for sunnier climes. We zoomed past a horde of toothless hoons doing burn-outs in their Holden V8s, cans of beer and 12-inch mullets included. There were a bunch of retirees-cum-caravanners who were dolled up in their summer clothes. But still it was oh so quiet on the Swedish front.

At last we reached Sydney. It was in the inner-city suburb of Glebe when this hunt for Nordic babes turned into... well, a wrong wet dream. We stopped here because of its outstanding Bohemian features. Driving through I sensed it was one of those places notorious for its ballooning transvestite population. This was the New South Wales answer to Brighton in England. And it had a charming village ambience that seeped fast into the bloodstream of the three of us.

The tenacious smell of fun that bubbled from the hostel doors lured

us in. There was a lounge, a TV room and an impressive amount of fl oral furnishing.

It was here though that transvestites, equipped with $2 purple wigs, ravaged me with renditions of “You can dance. You can jive. Having the time of your life! Ooooo...” I was right. There was a large transvestite population here. This was little consolation as the words crawled out of their bourbon breaths.

It soon dawned on me that:a) Swedish girls are surprisingly

tough to fi nd; b) Most of them are probably

indoors shooting those late night TV commercials; and

c) There was an old man standing outside the hostel staring at me as he fondled his navel.

That was it. I hoisted the white fl ag and shed the tears. In an act of wild desperation I sent an SMS and in fi ve seconds I had BABE 21 rolling about in her bed.

As I put the video on loop, I fl ushed out songs that I made up on the spot.

“Now and then when I see her face she takes me to that special place, and if I’d stare too long I’d probably break down and cry! Oh oh oh oh Swede love of mine. Oh oh oh oh Swede love of mine.”

On our trip home the Prado smelled atrocious. This came as no surprise as the combined BO of three men had been festering in there for days.

A tip for travellers: Air out the car at the night, or at least have one car wash during the trip. Phew.

SWEDE SUCCESS

TRAVEL VOUCHERS WINSend us your scary, funny or embarrassing travel tale (preferably about New Zealand, Australia or Fiji) and if published you’ll win a trip to see the highlights of New Zealand’s North Island with a Tom North Island Pass, worth $250 from Stray Adventure Travel Network (straytravel.com). Email your stories (700 words max), to [email protected]

27TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

N

The Wavehaven is located just south of Oakura and only 10 minutes drive from New Plymouth along the picturesque Surf Highway 45. Tucked away from the wind Oakura enjoys a warm climate and is home to numerous surf breaks and a safe patrolled swimming beach. Come and enjoy Taranaki hospitality in our converted turn of the century villa.

We provide comfortable clean rooms and a vast range of facilites. We are also happy to help you arrange activities during your stay in Taranaki. Situated in the backyard of some of New Zealand’s best surfing and wavesailing spots, the Wavehaven is the ideal accommodation for visitors keen to experience Taranaki’s world class outdoor attractions.

New Zealand is the country that has it all. Whether its rolling hills, sky scraping mountains, fi ords, glaciers,volcanoes or golden beaches, you’llfi nd them all in this wonderful, magical place. But you’re probably wonderinghow to see it all? Well, a Magic bus pass could be the answer. Imagine having the freedom to hop on and offwherever you are in the country. You’ll never need to worry about getting lost, you’ll never need to worry aboutwaking up with a pesky hangover, orworse, still being over the limit. With a Magic Adventure Bus Pass, we takethe stress away and let you enjoy whatNew Zealand has to offer!

THE PRIZE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING: Two passes with unlimited travel throughoutNew Zealand bringing together the highlights of the country into a simplifi ed itinerary including the cultural Rotorua, the adventurous and rugged National Parks, thestunning rainforests and glaciers of the West Coast, the adrenalin-pumping Queenstown, the dolphin mecca of Kaikoura and theresiliant and vibrant Chistchurch. This pass is worth over $746 each.

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Middle EarthNEW ZEALAND

31TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

NZTRIP

Not so long ago, the Lord Of The Rings trilogy was an international reference point for New Zealand. Then, those loveable losers Bret and Jermaine from Flight Of The Conchords did their part for tourism to the Land Of The Long White Cloud. Soon, though, with the December 14 release of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Kiwiland becomes Middle Earth again. Bilbo, Gandalf et al will adventure around this beautiful nation and you, too, can follow in their footsteps. To make things easy, we’ve compiled the top spots featured in Peter Jackson’s upcoming three-part epic. We don’t have any dragons for you, but like the Hobbits, you’ll come across a wealth of treasure. Remember to share, though, Precious.

Matamata

Fancy a drop of Sobering Thought Ale in the very spot where the Hobbits themselves hung out? Head to Matamata, at the foot of the Kaimai ranges, and visit Hobbiton, the actual set used in The Hobbit. As it’s situated on a farm, you’ll have the chance to feed lambs after you fi nished a tour of the set.

If you’re after something a little more exciting, the town has a gun club, where you can shoot clay pigeons with the locals; and the local golf club, members of which always welcome some new faces on the greens.

Ramp it up a notch with spot of gliding. Matamata is a world-renowned gliding spot, thanks to the up-drafts from the Kaimai Ranges create ideal conditions for gliding. There’s also a chance to strap on a parachute and leap out of a perfectly good plane, and when your feet are back on solid ground rest up in the mineral waters of the nearby Opal Hot Springs.

Te Kuiti

The Mangaotaki Valley, Denize Bluffs and nearby forests appear in The Hobbit as the Trollshaws setting and you’ll have plenty of fun around this rural New Zealand town.

Te Kuiti promotes itself as the sheep-shearing capital of the world. If you’re in the area around Easter, you can catch the annual NZ Shearing Champs and the Running Of The Sheep, New Zealand’s answer to Pamplona.

An unexpected journey Don’t get burrowed down in one spot, make like a hobbit and journey through Peter Jackson’s vision of JRR Tolkien’s beloved Middle Earth WORDS JAHN VANNISSELROY

If you’re after something a bit less sheepish, unleash your inner subterranean explorer, 20km away at the popular Waitomo Caves. Here, you can abseil 100m into the earth, before tubing in the underground river or marvelling at the spectacular glow worms hanging from the cave ceilings above. This is an experience you’ll never get anywhere else.

The geothermal city of Rotorua is only a 90-minute drive for Waitomo. If you’ve got the time, it’s well worth a visit. Explore a Maori village; get involved in adventure activities, such as luging and zorbing, and then fi nish up with a soak in the city’s ubiquitous hot pools.

Tongariro National Park

This phenomenally spectacular spot, New Zealand’s oldest national park, appears as the Lonely Mountains and the Long Valley in Peter Jackson’s latest creation.


One of Bilbo Baggins’ stoppvers

There’s three active volcanoes in the park, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe (aka Mt Doom) and Ruapehu. Ruapehu offers two ski-fi elds, Whakapapa and Turoa, open from late June to early November. Both cater to all levels of skill. All equipment can be hired on the mountain.

If you’re after more activity, hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, considered one of the world’s greatest day hikes. It’s challenging – taking you across rugged volcanic landscapes – but with incredible panoramic views of the beautiful surrounding countryside, well worth the effort.

Mountain bikers will love the area. Make sure you check out Fishers Track, 42 Traverse, Old Coach Road and the tempting Bridge to Nowhere.

White water rafting (exciting grade three rapids) can be enjoyed on the Tongariro River, but if you’re after something a bit more sedate, try fi shing for some rainbow trout that are in abundance in the park’s rivers and streams.

Wellington

This is it, Middle Earth fans - the biggie. Wellington was the main fi lming and production location for Lord Of The Rings and there was even discussion of creating a ’Wellywood’ sign on the City’s hillside (thankfully, sanity prevailed).

While you can’t visit the famous Weta Studios, the next big thing is Weta Cave in Miramar, Wellington. Here you’ll get an eye-opening insight into the imagination and creativity involved in creating fi lms such as The Hobbit. You’ll be able to come face to face with some of the characters, props and displays and discover the artists who created them and brought them to life.

32 TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Hobbiton for the little people

There’s a host of LOTR/ The Hobbit tours around town; these go in depth to the point of taking you to the actor’s favourite restaurants and drinking and shopping haunts.

Seaton, on Wellington’s South Coast is home to Peter Jackson – you can sometimes see him hanging out at the beach.

About town, Wellington has a thriving arts and culture scene. Head to Cuba Street for a slice of Bohemia, boutique shopping and some of the best coffee in town.

Wellington is home to New Zealand’s one-of-a-kind house of parliament, The Beehive. The country’s national museum, Te Papa, is also well worth a look.

Active travellers can make like the locals and in-line skate around Wellington’s beautiful waterfront, surf at Lyall Bay or take a trip up the coast to Adrenalin Forest and test themselves on the Tarzan swings, fl ying foxes and high ropes.

Nelson

Pelorus Bridge near Nelson was used for the Forest River scenes in The Hobbit. Here you can explore a huge native forest, swim or kayak in the river, or picnic under the trees.

Nelson is recognised as New Zealand’s sunniest spot. The long hours of solar blessing have attracted a hive of creative people, with more than 350 working artists and craftspeople calling the city home. You’ll be able to mix and mingle with them at Nelson’s famous Saturday Flea Market – this is an opportunity to take home a unique piece of art to always remember the country by.

In keeping with the art theme, there’s the World of Wearable Art Museum, just 10 minutes from the city centre

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Inside the Weta Cave

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– or you can watch glassblowers get creative at Hoglund Art Glass, set within seven acres of tranquil gardens.

Get centred in downtown Nelson by standing at the central point of New Zealand. The locals will point you in the right direction.

Chances are you’ll be hungry for action, and you’ll be able to satiate those cravings in Nelson with activities including skydiving, rock climbing, 4WD biking and horse trekking. More intrepid travellers can charter and sail to the amazing Abel Tasman National Park for a spot of hiking.

Travel to the nearby Farewell Spit, and visit the internationally important bird sanctuary and wetland. There are also huge sand dunes – take a cardboard box and surf down them.

Takaka

The Takaka Hills make an appearance in The Hobbit as the Westfarthing Countryside and Weatherhills. The area’s sun-drenched Golden Bay also is also featured.

Beautiful Takaka’s a magnet for alternative lifestylers and, as such, there’s plenty of character around the town. Check out the local museum, movie theatre and a great choice of shops and cafés, plus plenty of local art.

If you’re feeling active, there’s the renowned Heaphy Track, a four- to-six-day tramp through the Kahurangi National Park, fi nishing up north of Karamea on the West Coast.

Get an idea of what water should really taste like as you lap up the purest water in the Southern Hemisphere (if not the entire planet), at Waikoropupu (Pupu) Springs. You’ll enjoy the peace and beauty as you wander through the bush on raised wooden tracks crossing the waters that fl ow from the spring.

Explore the Te Anaroa Caves in nearby Rockville, and check out the glow worms, stalactites and stalagmites. You can also head up Anatolia River, where you feed the eels at Bencarri Farm Park, before casting your line out and then and having your hot smoked at Anatoki Salmon.

Twizel

Lake Pukaki near Twizel, was used as the Shores Of Laketown and The fi elds of Gondor in Return of the King were also shot in the area.

Take a one- or two-hour tour with Discovery Tours and get all the behind-the-scenes stories of the fi lms. If you’re really keen, you can don a helmet and wield a replica LOTR sword, as you participate in a mock battle with other Hobbitphiles.

When you’re done, the peaks and trails of Mount Cook National Park are just up the road, or you can fi sh for salmon and trout in the local rivers, canals and lakes. If you’re after a more rare kind of exercise, head to the town’s frisbee golf course (frisbees are provided for those who haven’t packed their own).

Twizel is also a well-positioned base for mountain climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, horse trekking and hiking.

Queenstown

Queenstown’s spectacular mountain range, The Remarkables, was used as the Misty Mountains in Peter Jackson’s upcoming fi lm, and spots all around the region made up the Wildlands. Nearby Wanaka appears as the Lonelands and the aptly named Paradise features as the Outskirts of Bree.

Queenstown is internationally known as the adventure

capital of the world and as such, adrenaline junkies may fi nd their pockets far lighter on the way out.

The choices are endless: indulge in (take a breath) skydiving, rafting, jet boating, river surfi ng, heli-skiing, snowboarding (another breath) handgliding, paragliding, bungee jumping, canyon swinging and walking and hiking.

There’s never any shortage of people wanting to have a good time and Queenstown doesn’t disappoint. There are a huge number of bars and restaurants to cater to anyone wanting to prolong their day and swap tales of their hair-raising adventures.

When you do decide to chill out and take break, head to one of the many wineries in the Gibbston Valley to sample the region’s exquisite pinot noir. Then, refl ect on being in one of the world’s most beautiful spots as you overlook the stunning Lake Wakatipu.

Dunedin

Dunedin was used a base for fi lming, and nearby Rock & Pillar Range and Middlemarch were used for The Hobbit’s Dale Hills.

While in Dunedin, hit the beaches of St Clair and St Kilda for surf; head up Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest street; and plan a trip out of town to the haunting rocky tors and tussock of Middlemarch, the starting point for the Otago Central Rail Trail.

Be sure to head along Dunedin’s Otago Peninsula to explore Larnach Castle and get close to nature at the penguin, albatross and seal colonies.

Dunedin’s a university town, so you’re sure to fi nd a

party somewhere. Head to legendary drinking hole, the Captain Cook Tavern and then walk up to the town centre, known as The Octagon, where there are bars aplenty at which to get amongst the locals.

For a change of pace, head 12kms to the seaside town of Port Chalmers, to check out galleries, eateries and second-hand bookshops. ❚

35TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Rocking out, Hobbit-style, in Wellington

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aim with precision, their beers forming an orderly queue. Anchoring in a secluded outer Bay of Islands cove,

we throw our lines to catch snapper for dinner. And the hunger is on. Crewmember, Nathan, demonstrates how to fillet mullet; bait for our snapper. It’s a bloody mess, filled with flashing memories from high school biology classes. With surgical precision, Nathan then removes the still-living heart from a caught snapper (hunger rapidly fading). It continues to beat on his hand, hopping around like a scene from a cartoon. Only this is real!

“Now this is iron-rich food guys,” he explains with utter seriousness. Captivated carnivores laugh while queasy vegetarians take a seat. “This nutritious dish is treasured by the indigenous people, so look upon it as a superfood.” Nathan then offers it around the group, calling: “Anyone?” But no sooner than I let out a Hyacinth

It all seems quite sane at first, zooming away from Paihia wharf in our boat’s launch, sandwiched hip-to-hip with a bunch of shy backpacking strangers. One girl seems oblivious to the world, her eyes penetrating her Fifty Shades of Grey paperback, a guy stabs manically at his iPhone, another clearly the victim of a late night, and doesn’t seem to feel the spray hitting his still-numb face. And then Jonny, our skipper, comes right out with it: “So, who’s up for a weekend of eating raw fish?” The “Yeaahhhhh!” comes from the token tall Swede, the “Coooool!” from the young German lad, and the “You are not serious I hope?” is eloquently delivered by the older British lady, who looks positively terrified. It’s funny, I’ve never referred to myself as an ‘older British lady’ before.

Helplessly gazing at the luxury cruise ship anchored near the rust-coloured vessel we are headed for, I wonder if I might have booked the wrong type of houseboat experience. I contemplate the three-course celebrity chef-inspired banquets that the gleaming white liner will serve up to its freshly showered and mani/pedi-groomed passengers. I then think of Captain Bligh and his loyal crew who were set adrift in the HMS Bounty’s launch by Fletcher Christian in 1789, and wonder if mutiny is still illegal.

As we near the wild and wacky YHA-run floating hostel, I focus on the positives: I don’t have a humdinger of a hangover; I left my phone at home; and I’ve got a sexy new novel on my list. Plus, I might just survive the next 22 hours as I climb aboard The Rock.

Within minutes, Jonny’s laid-back crew make us feel at home, sipping on beers and mugs of tea as we all exchange names and itineraries. I even get a biscuit! C’mon, who needs celebrity chefs?

Food for thought

It’s target practice time, and we’re promised a free beer if we successfully shoot an Australian called Matilda, who is on board with us today. Matilda is the plastic duck that’s now being tied to the boat’s rear. The Europeans take this with a pinch of salt, but the Kiwis take it seriously. They

A rocky weekend A cruise around the maritime playground of the Bay of Islands brings on fishy moments, starry memories and salty tastes WORDS MARIE BARBIERI

NZTRIPlike us on facebook/tntdownunder

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM 37

“ We’re promised a beer if we shoot an Australian called Matilda ”

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Lying back, the stars hang from the sky as if on stalks. “Look down!” someone shouts. Staring into the water, an iridescent blue glitters vividly. This phenomenon erupts into an underwater firework show as our paddles splash the surface. The luminescence of this marine plankton, belonging to the dinoflagellate family, is known as phosphorescence. To night-kayak, using this spectacular plankton as navigational tools, is absolutely magical.

Back on board, Ben, another warm crewmember, summons us to the flickering log fire. We all huddle under itchy blankets, at the end of the candle-lit galley bar. Out comes the guitar, and as Hans from Norway mobilises the piano keys, Ben sings for us, taking on any Beatles or Coldplay requested. It is however unanimously agreed that Britney Spears’ Baby one more time, just doesn’t sit well!

As the firelight fades, we head up to our cosy cabins. They’re basic, but appropriately decked out in maritime timber, all with water views. Jonny and his wife Sarah have been running this unique institution for the past five years. Their environmentally friendly, converted vehicle-ferry sleeps up to 36 spirited passengers. The guest book and photo albums reveal that it has heard the snores of backpackers, families with kids and grey nomads. And I too love it here, as I paint my toenails using the moonlight to line up the brushstrokes.

Splashes from belly-flopping British awake me long before the breakfast bell. With the sun still dozing, I slide open my door and place my newly-decorated toes onto the damp balcony that’s coated in a sparkly veil of salt-encrusted dew.

“How’s the water?” I shout to a breathless swimmer. Puffing like last night’s dying snapper, he blabbers, “It…would…cut…the…balls off you!” So that answered my

Bucket-like nervous shriek, a teenager steps forward with an outstretched hand.

In it went. But it wasn’t like the dreaded challenges in those reality TV shows, where it goes down almost without touching the sides. No, this kid munched, savouring every last capillary, like rolling a fine red wine around the tongue. In (stunned) support, we clapped and cheered.

Our slowly resuscitating olfactory systems tell us that the Scotch steaks and beef sausages have hit the barbeque. At dinner, only one catch-of-the-day is shared between us (very small and large fish are returned to the water for conservation). But there is plenty for all as we feast on our meats with kumara (the local sweet potato favoured by the Maoris), fresh breads, pasta, rice and beetroot salad around the long table, in the kitchen-cum-diner-cum-lounge-cum-bar-cum-pool room.

As night blankets our twinkling boat, satiated stomachs prop against the bar. Others brush round the pool table, as jokes fly between opponents. “You’re shooting with two left feet man!” and “Your balls are zigzagging mate!” and “It’s the boat swaying!” seem to be on constant replay.

The laughter increases and nothing matters. The music is playing, accents are singing, and the drinks are flowing. But refreshingly, nobody is drunk. Through the exchanges of foreign words and chinking glasses, we all share the common language of escapism.

Starry, starry night

With the sun now in a deep sleep, the crew prepare passengers for night-kayaking. “You are in for a real surprise guys!” promises Nathan. So against human nature, we seesaw into our kayaks, torch-less, and paddle into the depths of blackness. That’s until our eyes adjust.

Reaching the summit

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM 39

question then. I don’t have the balls (both metaphorically and anatomically) to join him, so instead, do yoga on the sundeck. An American couple join me. Life’s perfect.

We may be in the winterless north of New Zealand, but the chilly morning wind soon ushers us towards a Kiwi breakfast of porridge, fruit and shiver-curing coffee.

Island time

After sunrise, we cruise the pristine Bay of Islands. Blue penguins wade by as flocks of storm petrels shadow them. “Stingrays in the coves attract hammerheads and orca whales!” says Jonny. They remain elusive, but the Soren Larsen tallship doesn’t. All arms frantically wave as we cross, quite literally, like passing ships.

Arriving at Waewaetorea Island, we kayak into Stingray Cove and step onto its toe-warming sand. Some don snorkelling gear, and Ben leads the rest of us on a human ant-trail up to an ancient Maori Pa (fortified settlement). Conquering the grassy summit, a cathartic canvas unpeels; on one side, the sheltered honey-hued beach; on the other, the churning Pacific.

“Okay guys,” begins Ben, “We’re on the furthest island from the mainland, and just opposite,” he points, “is Motukiekie, a private island.” But the 144 islands in the bay have not always been as peaceful as today.

“Back in 1841, on nearby Motuarohia Island (where Captain Cook dropped anchor in 1769), a scandalous event happened. The 17 year-old son of a Maori chief murdered

the family he was working for, and burned their house down. He was the first to be hanged in New Zealand.”

Looping back down to the beach, some play rugby, while others splay like lizards absorbing the mid-day warmth. The snorkelers return, looking pretty hyped up about seeing an octopus in the kelp fields.

An ominous-looking kina, in all its sea-urchin weaponry, sits in the hand of a stupefied snorkeler. “Our lunch!” he offers. Back on The Rock, Nathan invites us to sample the kina’s raw blubbery gizzards. “Drop the grimaces guys,” he says, highly amused. “Kina are endemic to New Zealand and are traditional Maori food. You’d pay a fortune to find this delicacy on a menu.”

Cutting the kina open, he points to its intestines, sex glands and mouth, and then extracts a razor-sharp tooth from it. Then he picks up a spoon! You guessed it. Just like the snapper’s heart, a brave volunteer scoops out the eggs, encased in brown slipperiness, hanging like bird excrement. The group stare, starkly silent. After he performs several involuntary shoulder spasms, not dissimilar to Peter Garrett’s classic dance moves, I dare to ask: “So what’s it like?” No response yet. “Slimy? Salty? Sour?” to which he finally replies with a gurgled: “YES!” The group catapults into laughter. ❚

Damage and details: Marie travelled with Rock the Boat who run two-day cruises of the Bay of Islands from $180NZ. Prices include meals and accommodation. See: rocktheboat.co.nz

www.rocktheboat.co.nz0800 762 527Book now to avoid disappointment

Offer is valid to 31 March 2013 and is not

available in conjunction with any other offer.

YOU KNOW YOU’RE SPECIAL!

Bring this advert in to enjoy onboard

credit of $20. Can either be used at

the bar or, if you tell us when you

book, a package upgrade including

a picnic lunch, towel and welcome

drink.

“We’d like to give thanks as wide

as the sea for your hospitality.

What a wonderful weekend we

had – ‘The Rock’ rocks!”

“Thanks for taking my breath away

for several times during this trip...

the most beautiful moments can’t

be put in a frame, but will certainly

stay in my mind and heart”

Diving POOR KNIGHTS ISLANDS

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM40

group would be split. Next up, it was time to get the equipment on and waddle our way to the back of the boat, for that all-important giant stride into the water. Wow! It was so warm I thought for a second I must have

Have you ever met a poor knight? Or even heard of one for that matter? Can’t say I’d imagine a knight would ever be that poor, what with having to wear shiny expensive-looking armour anyway. That may sound surreal, but that’s what was going through my mind as I headed 23km off the north-east coast of New Zealand towards the Poor Knights Islands.

Yep there’s not just one poor knight we’re talking about here, it’s a whole gaggle of them. The Poor Knights Islands offer the best sub-tropical diving in the world.

Well, that’s what Jacques Cousteau reckons anyway, as top diving expert that he is, he even goes as far to say it’s one of the top 10 dive sites, anywhere.

Whoah! I’ll have a gander at that, I thought to myself. The Poor Knights Islands are washed by a warm current that sweeps down from the Coral Sea.

Even better, water temperatures are warmer and visibility is clearer than on the New Zealand coast. There’s no point freezing your bits off if you can dive in a warm current instead, right?

The islands have volcanic origins which have formed a great variety of spectacular drop-offs, caves, walls, tunnels and arches.

It’s an underwater environment where sub-tropical and temperate marine life co-exist with amazing beauty and diversity. The islands are a complete marine reserve, so everything down below is thriving, vividly coloured, and most importantly – alive! I signed up for a trip and joined a group of like-minded divers for the day-long trip out to the Islands.

Eel like it

We headed out across the open ocean, looking out for sea birds and dolphins along the way.

It was great being part of a small group, as it’s always so much more relaxed than when there’s heaps of people jostling to set up their equipment in a small place. Instead, we had a chat with the instructors and told them about our experience so they could figure out how the

Diving with royalty The Poor Knights Islands are one of the world’s best dive sites. Get tanked up to be wowed by the marine life – ain’t nothing poor about itWORDS RACHEL PINDER

NZTRIP

A-okay underwater


TNTDOWNUNDER.COM 41

“ They have volcanic origins which have formed spectacular caves ”

[Caption]

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM42

wet myself. I couldn’t wait to see what was going on under there.

We started our descent and the first thing I noticed was the amazing visibility. It was crystal clear and I could see for at least 20 metres.

The colours were so bright they could have been Photo-shopped. (Not sure how that would be possible underwater, but someone will think of it one day).

But there’s no need for it at the Poor Knights as the place is buzzing with technicolour life and activity. On our first dive at Brady’s Corner, we got up close to heaps of amazing anemones, loads of different fish and even a scorpion fish. But the best thing was when we spotted a yellow moray eel snaking it’s way along the bottom, weaving its way in and out of plantlife.

I’d only ever seen their heads poking out of a hole or cave before so to see one out in the open was pretty amazing. It was huge. Like about five or six metres long kind of huge. At least it was heading away from us... not sure if I’d fancy coming face to face with the thing, however cool it was to see it swimming!

Before I knew it, my air was running low and it was time to make my safety stop and head to the surface, so Laura made sure I ascended slowly and soon enough I popped back up on the surface.

Triple wow

After warming up with some hot soup and a tasty lunch of sarnie and cookie which I heartily gobbled down with great satisfaction, we headed round the islands for our second dive.

We pulled up at Middle Arch, another top spot where

What are you looking at?

Nothing poor about this visibilty

OUR PICK

Xxxxxxxx

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM 43

Divers are spoilt for choice in New Zealand. There’s around 15,000km of coastline and hundreds of offshore islands – the vast and diverse underwater landscape is a huge adventure playground. There are heaps of marine reserves which keep marine life nice and safe in clean, clear waters. You can dive numerous wrecks, drop-offs and sub-tropical reefs, check out kelp forests, swim with schools of fish or clown around with seals.Underwater guru Jacques Cousteau rated the Poor

Knights Islands Marine Reserve as one of the world’s top diving locations. Another truly unique – and world class – one is White Island. The active volcanic isle boasts crystal clear deep blue waters home to huge numbers of fish, from Lord Howe coralfish and kingfish to moray eels and stingrays. Not only that, but where else can you see volcanic activity underwater?

Other popular areas worth checking out on the North Island are the Bay of Islands, Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park, Great Barrier Island and the Cavalli Islands. The South Island also has heaps of good spots to discover as well, including the dramatic fiords of the South Island, Kaikoura (for seals), the Marlborough Sounds and Stewart Island’s kelp forests.

Many of the popular spots are easy to get to from the mainland coast or you can jump in a boat to a remote reef or island. Or try the tranquility of kayak diving or f night diving. Coastal waters teem with colourful, fascinating sea life and the usually clear waters make for excellent viewing, especially from February to June.

DIVING: GETTING ALL DEEP IN NEW ZEALAND

we were told about a big wall we could follow along, and even an underwater cave. Too cool – let me at, it I thought. So after getting geared up again and another giant stride we were all set to descend into another magical kingdom. This dive was even better!

We weren’t even down for very long before I spotted a long-tailed stingray steadily powering itself along through the water.

After watching it disappear into the distance, I was amazed to see another, and another, and even another. Yes, three stingrays effortlessly gliding above me, flapping themselves along into a shaft of sunlight which beamed its way through the depths below.

Wow, wow and triple wow

Once I’d gathered myself back to reality, I continued making my merry way through the water, and I think I must have had a permanent smile on my face as I trundled along, very happily. But the best was yet to come.

Our instructor Laura led us into an amazing underwater cave, where we could swim right up to the surface and even pop our heads up, take the regulator out, and have a chat to our buddy 12 metres under. Now that has to be a first.

We couldn’t stay in the cave too long though, as obviously the air in there wasn’t the freshest. A bit on the stale side would be a bit more accurate.

So beaming from ear to ear, I’d had two fantastic dives. And no, I didn’t come across any knights who were stretched for cash down there. Ah well, maybe they’d gone fishing. ❚

44 TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Diving with sharksFIJI

45TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

BIGTRIP

“Remember when sex was safe and diving was dangerous?” reads one of the endless dive stickers that dot our boat. I stare at it in awe. After all, I’m about to jump in the water, without a cage, to meet dozens of large sharks. Bull sharks in particular, with an outside chance of also spotting tigers. In other words, I’ll be in open water with the sort of tooth-heavy predators that are commonly labelled ‘maneaters’. We’d only need a great white to complete the big three that, on a normal day, you really don’t want to see in the water. If this insanity is safe, then what the hell do these guys get up to in their sex lives?

I’m in Pacifi c Harbour, a sleepy little community a few hours drive east along the coast from Nadi, on Fiji’s Viti Levu Island. The area is home to little more than a small village and a few resorts, but these hotels are thriving thanks to two water-based attractions – the highly rated Frigate’s Passage surf break and the big shark feeding in Beqa Lagoon, which has rapidly earned a reputation for being one of the world’s most exciting dives. That reputation is born out, it seems, by the inhabitants of my boat – all experienced divers hailing from as diverse a group as nations as the USA, Slovenia, the UK, South Africa, New Caledonia, Australia, New Zealand and Panama.

The dives began back in 1999. They were started, as all such craziness seems to be, by a South African.

“All the resorts thought I was mad and didn’t want to get involved at fi rst,” the man himself, Brandan Paige, tells me. And, in a way, the so-called ‘shark whisperer’ is mad. But there’s also no denying the Beqa dive industry owes it all to him. “The other resorts entered the market a year and a half after me,” continues Brandan. “They’d decided it was safe. Aqua Trek customers had been the guinea pigs.” And with not a single incident in all those years so far, that analysis seems fair. However, edging towards the back of the boat, there’s only one thought going through my mind. “There’s a fi rst time for everything.”

Shark talesFiji might be famous for its perfect beaches, but it also boasts some of the most exciting underwater experiences on the planet WORDS ANDREW WESTBROOK

Under the water it quickly becomes clear we’re no longer in the land of ‘Fiji Time’. Brandan has plenty of troops and they’re well in control. Taken down to around 24 metres, we hang onto a rope and form a line, waiting for the show to begin. The bins of bait are lowered into the arena as the circus masters take their positions while sentries patrol behind and above us. And then the frenzy begins.

The water clouds with activity. A huge groper hovers right in front, while sicklefi n lemon, grey reef and whitetip reef sharks zip left and right, fi lling my vision. Sparkling tropical fi sh cower right in front of my mask, closer than I’ve ever experienced, clearly realising I’m the least of their worries right now.

At one point a dive master calmly taps me on the shoulder to make me aware of

the disturbed moray eel right behind me, halfway out of his


WHAT TO DO: Beqa Lagoon shark dive with Aqua Trek (aquatrek.com) costs FJD$270. Awesome Adventures (awesomefi ji.com) offer various packages for Yasawa Flyer transport and island accommodation (fi ve-day trips, including food, start at FJD$797). Manta ray swim costs FJD$35. Naqalia shark swim costs FJD$50.CURRENCY: Fijian dollar.$1 = 1.85 FJDACCOMMODATION: Nadi Bay Resort Hotel (fi jinadibayhotel.com) has beds from FJD$37.SEE: For an overview of what Fiji has to offer, go to tourismfi ji.com

Found you!

hole and snapping around like a snarling rottweiler straining against its lead. A sight like that would often be the highlight of a dive, but here it’s just the sideshow, a circus freak vying for a part amongst the lion tamers and acrobats.

The running of the bullsThe running of the bulls

Some of the stars, a few big bull sharks, have arrived. The giant ball of feasting sways left and right, every now and then dissected by a bull lunging in, prompting panicked fl urries of escape in every direction.

And the bulls are most defi nitely big. Without my phalanx of protectors, I wouldn’t stand a chance if they fancied a go. But they don’t seem bothered. They swim right past, only a couple of metres away, and pay no attention. Several times one emerges from the swarm and heads straight for me, its giant frame, with its hulking shoulders and mean, frowning face, a picture perfect example of an untameable predator.

Each time it gives me a derisory sneer before veering off to terrify some other hapless creature. Strangely enough, however, it’s more exhilarating than terrifying. In fact, it really does feel safe, as well as absolutely mesmerising and engrossing. Indeed, having dived across the world, including having jumped into a couple of cages to see great whites, this is the best I’ve experienced. I simply don’t want to leave.

Yet soon enough we hear the tapping on tanks that is the signal for our departure, which is also the most unnerving part of the dive. We head back up through the open water, and hover for our three minute rest stop, knowing that no small number of large sharks are very close.

But that, we soon learn, was just the warm-up act. An hour on the boat to refuel, chatter excitedly and let yet more big sharks work out there’s food in the area and we’re back in, this time heading to a different location where we all perch behind a small wall. This, it soon becomes clear, is where the main show takes place. And soon enough, a dozen or more bull sharks have joined the party, ducking in from the sides, swimming straight at us once more.

Movement is everywhere. Fins, teeth, fl esh, fi sh heads. There’s no doubt that danger is all around, but it’s never felt, the troops marshalling both the divers and sharks in a way that is under control, the maniacs even hand-feeding giant heads to the bulls before darting out of the way.

The scene in front of us is nature at its most brutal and beautiful, hectic and somehow harmonious. There must be hundreds, if not thousands of creatures just metres away, all with senses on full alert, and yet from our position, I’m surreally calm, as though David Attenborough’s soft tones

46 TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

“ The maniacs are hand-feeding giant heads to the bull sharks ”

are easing me through the experience in my head. No tigers show up (it had been a week since the last appearance), but I don’t even realise until long after the dive, when I can fi nally begin to comprehend what I’ve been lucky enough to witness.

Meeting mantasMeeting mantas

It’s not just travellers who love visiting the paradise islands of the Yasawas, but manta rays too

Bom, bom, bom, bom! The sound of drumming echoes through the trees as I stir in my bunk. That means either breakfast or manta rays. Both good options, but what to take – snorkel or appetite? Pausing a moment I hear the rubbery sounds of people scurrying past. Manta rays it is then.

I’m on Nanuya Balavu Island, home to the cunningly-named Mantaray Resort, having island hopped for three hours through the Mamanucas and halfway up the Yasawas. Here, almost daily during the right season (May to October), mantas are spotted in the channel round the corner from the resort. And each time that eyes are laid on one of these giant beauties, which can grow up to 7 metres wide, the drum call goes out and we’ve got a few minutes to get to the beach and make the departing boat. So on we get and off we go.

A few swift minutes ride and we’re there. Almost immediately we spot the fi rst small fi n atop a large shadow and, splash, we’re in. And there it is, right below us. Massive, elegant, playful, it fl oats through the powerful current like a magic carpet. Flapping its wings, it mouth agape. It soars past at a speed impossible to compete with, dragging its long spear-like tail behind it. I try not to think about Steve Irwin.Having been lured into the current by our fi rst sighting, we hitch a lift back to the top of the channel and go in search once again. We spot a few more, each several metres wide. One of them sits below us for a good fi ve minutes, contentedly devouring the plankton which the current

For info and bookings see your travel centreor contact us: phone1800 007 129 or SKYPE awesomefiji

[email protected] www.awesomefiji.com

ON TO FIJI?TRAVELLING

Prices are ex Denarau, Fiji, in Australian dollars and valid for travel to 31 March 2013.

AAF3373 - Issue 674

Visit the remote

Yasawa Islands, Fiji.

Chill, snorkel dive, kayak, e

xplore - it’s all there.

ISLAND HOPPING PASSESComplete freedom to explore the Yasawa Islands, including Beachcomber. Choose from a 5, 7, 10, 12, 15 or 21 day pass. Passes from $217

EASY FLEXIBLE PACKAGESExplore the real Fiji. From 5 to 11 nights. Includes vessel transfers, accommodation, meals and activities. Packages from $586

ISLAND ESCAPESA bit like survivor but a lot more fun! Strand yourself on one island for 2, 4 or 6 nights. If you can stand the pain of coral lagoons and coconut palms then stay longer. Packages from $224

Daily departures for all packages and passes from Denarau Marina

5 days 4 nights 2 islands

GREAT PAIRS

Straight out of your tropical Island Fantasy. Two island stays have always been extremely popular so we’ve made it really easy for you with a matching of islands that we think make a great pair. Packages from $421

ll there.

nd

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for backpackers

and alternative travellers

who want to experience the

“real Fiji”

47TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

delivers straight into its mouth while I swim frantically above it, desperately fi ghting the current to stay in position. Once it fi nally decides to move on, I’m knackered, which means one thing – back to the beach.

Fin fetishFin fetish

Fed up of crowds and, er, safety precautions? Escape the masses with a more hands-on shark experience.

It’s straight after breakfast and three of us join our Fijian hosts Fish and Si to head off, straight out to sea. Behind us we’re leaving Wayalailai Island. Naqalia Lodge to be more precise. It’s a small, family-run place, a lodge where the handful of bures were tents only a few years ago and where getting to know the family is as important as sipping cocktails in a hammock. It’s also happens to offer experiences the larger resorts would be terrifi ed of running – such as shark feeding snorkel trips.

After about 15 minutes, with land a long way off in every direction, we come to a stop. Si suddenly strips off, grabs his spear (basically a metal rod with a big rubber band) and jumps into the water. It turns out we’re right on top of Mouya Reef. We wait several minutes until Si reappears, victorious, with a parrot fi sh skewered on his spear. The gleaming parrot fi sh is handed over and duly ripped in two. No sentimentality for beauty here, it’s once stunning body now a crushed mess.

It’s now our turn to jump in. Skirting the edge of the reef, Fish soon points out the fi rst whitetip reef shark. And then another. And another. They’re not big, perhaps 1-1.5m, but they’re sharks, sharks with teeth, and our guide Fish (this could get confusing) is carrying a dead fi sh.

Paddling around above them, it’s hard not to feel vulnerable, unsure of what’s about to happen. They begin circling us, fi ve of them in total. Starting a few metres below us, Fish gives them a sight of the bait, held close to his chest until now, and their interest steps up a notch. They’re suddenly at our level. I keep an eye on one as it passes me to my left, only to have a second bump past me on the right. Keeping track of them all is near impossible. Fish starts stroking them on the back of the neck as they pass, so I

follow suit. The skin is leathery and the shark picks up speed, but seems to crane upwards like a cat. It seems to like it. The food gone, the sharks hang around, wondering if more will come. Either that or they’re just trying to work out what sort of crazy creatures we are, dropping out of the sky, useless in the water and giving them food in return for a sly grope.

Do they feel used? Do they feel dirty? Probably just a bit less hungry. ❚

Welcome to paradise. Hard to believe danger isn’t far away

48 TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

JETSET ACCOMMODATION JetSet Accommodation is one of Nadi's premier choice for upscale accommodations - desirably located in Nadi Bay. The exceptional location of our hotel places you amidst

the famous Wailoaloa Beach and the Nadi International Runway.

PALM ROAD, WAILOALOA, NADI. FIJI ISLANDS PH: (+679) 6728750 FAX: (+679) 6728751 Email: [email protected] See our website for rates and bookings

ROOM AMENITIES Walk-out balconies Air-Condition Bathtub Internet data-port in rooms 32" LCD TV Fridge / Freezer Tea/Coffee making facilities

FACILITIES & SERVICES Free airport pickup Large outdoor swimming pool Restaurant FREE on-site parking FREE wired & wireless internet service Conference center

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TNTDOWNUNDER.COM50

BOOK NOW!BAREESSENTIALS follow us on @tnt_downunder

BANKSNationwide banks like Westpac, ANZ and Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) have the most branches and, if you are planning on spending a long period of time here, issue cards for use at ATMs (cashpoints).

Changing money

You can change money at any bank. American Express, Visa, Mastercard and Thomas Cook travellers’ cheques are all widely recognised. Banks will give cash advances on Visa and Mastercard credit cards but for American Express you must go to a designated Amex office. Foreign exchange is available for all international flights at airports.

HEALTHAuckland Metro Doctors Travelcare

For accident and medical care and all international travel vaccines. Pharmacy, X-ray and laboratory. Open six days. BNZ Tower, cnr 125 Queen & Swanson Sts, Auckland, 09 373 4621, Email: [email protected]

TMVC For all your medical needs.Christchurch, 03 379 4000

POSTPost Offices are open 9am-5pm on weekdays. Mail can be sent to ‘Poste Restante, CPO’ in the relevant city. CPO stands for Chief Post Office. Mail will be held for 30 days. Delivery time is two days between major centres, a bit longer for rural areas.

PHONESPay phones in NZ are usually of the card variety and phone cards are available in values of $5, $10, $20 and $50. The country dial code for New Zealand is 64.

Directory assistance 018

International operator: 0170 (reversed charges)

Emergency (Fire, ambulance, police): 111

Compass communications Kia Ora cards. Prepaid calling card kiaoracard.co.nz

Country & area codes

New Zealand 64; Auckland 09; Northland 09; Rotorua/Taupo 07; Wellington 04; South Island 03

Directory service

International: 0172

DOM AIRLINESAuckland

Air New Zealand0800 737 000, 09 357 3000

Great Barrier 09 275 9120

Wellington

Air New Zealand0800 737 000,

Soundsair Wellington0800 505 00503 520 3080

INSURANCEDownunder Worldwide Travel Insurance09 376 8292, [email protected]

VISAThe type of visa you will need to enter NZ is determined by how long you want to stay and what you want to do while you’re there. If you are only entering New Zealand as a tourist you may need a visa depending on what country you are from. If you intend to work while you are in New Zealand you can apply for one online, once you’re here. Citizens of many countries can get a 23-month Working Holiday visa. immigration.govt.nz

Visitor’s Visas

Citizens of a number of countries do not require visas if they are visiting NZ for three months or less. On arrival, all visitors must be in possession of a valid ticket or enough funds to purchase a ticket out of NZ to a country they have the right of entry to, ie: you must already hold a visa for that country if one is required – you cannot expect to get the visa once you are in New Zealand. Your passport must be valid for three months beyond when you expect to leave NZ, and

you must also have sufficient money (NZ$1000 for each month of your visit) to support yourself during your stay. If you wish to stay longer than three months, you should apply for a Visitor’s Visa (which will allow you to stay in NZ for up to nine months) before you arrive in New Zealand, although British passport holders on arrival in NZ may be issued a permit valid for a stay of up to six months.

Extensions

If you like New Zealand and decide you’d like to stay here longer you may extend your stay to a maximum of nine months in an 18 month period. To do this you need to apply for a further visitor permit. You can apply for these permits online (immigration.govt.nz). If you do need to apply in person, New Zealand Immigration Service offices are located in Auckland, Hamilton, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin. The Auckland office is very busy and you may experience long delays when applying there. When applying, you need to show your outward ticket or prove your ability to purchase such a ticket; your current passport, a recent passport-sized photo and evidence that you still have sufficient funds to support yourself. If you do not have the required funds, you will need a guarantee of accommodation and maintenance from a NZ friend or relative who is willing to be your sponsor.

BEN HARPER Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington. Nov 3.The legendary American singer songwriter returns to New Zealand for his first ever solo tour. Playing NZ wide starting in Wellington.

Wellington benharper.com

DON’T MISS!

CHECK OUT

Phot

o: To

uris

m N

ew Z

eala

nd

RAGLANArguably home to the most famous surfing scene in New Zealand, Raglan’s beaches have something for everyone. Manu Bay is said to have the longest left hand break for boardriding, but if that isn’t your thing, then there are some great spots along the coast for swimming or chilling out on a hot day. Situated on the west coast of the North Island, this is one of many New Zealand beaches that have black volcanic sand, creating a unique feel to a day at the beach. Raglan has a very active population and if you’ve had enough of the beach then there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy. You can try horse riding, trekking through the bush or hiking to the top of local Mount Karioi. It’s a three hour trip but well worth it for the view of the area from the top. For something less strenuous, you can take a drive to Bridal Veil falls or do some low-key mountain biking or cycling along the local trails on the weekends. The town itself is nice and compact, so visitors can enjoy a stroll through the shops and relax in one of the classy cafés full of local artwork.

BUSES & TOURSAtomic Shuttles South Island buses. 03 349 0697, atomictravel.co.nz

Bottom Bus Far south tours. 03 477 9083, bottombus.co.nz

Flexi-Pass Combines InterCity and Newmans. 0800 222 146, flexipass.co.nz

Flying Kiwi Wilderness Expeditions0800 693 296, flyingkiwi.com

Kiwi Experience 09 336 4286kiwiexperience.com

Magic Travellers Network 09 358 5600, magicbus.co.nz

Nakedbus.com 0900 62533, nakedbus.com

NZ Travelpass 0800 339 966, travelpass.co.nz

Stray 09 526 2140, straytravel.com

West Coast Shuttle Greymouth to Christchurch buses. 03 768 0028,westcoastshuttle.co.nz

RENTAL FIRMSAce Rental Cars 0800 502 277, acerentalcars.com.nz

Apex Car Rentals 0800 939 597 , apexrentals.co.nz

Mighty Cars and Campers (Formerly Backpacker Campervan & Car Rentals) 0800 081 026mightycampers.co.nz

Bargain Rental Cars 0800 001122, bargainrentals.co.nz

Darn Cheap Rentals 0800 800 327, dcrentals.co.nz

Econo Campers 09 275 9919, econocampers.co.nz

Escape Rentals 0800 216 171, escaperentals.co.nz

Jucy Rentals 0800 399 736, jucy.co.nz

Nationwide Rental Cars0800 803 003, nationwiderentalcars.co.nz

Pegasus Rental Cars 0800803 580, rentalcars.co.nz

Rent-A-Dent 0800 736 823, rentadent.co.nz

Rental Car Village 09 376 9935, hire-vehicles.co.nz

Spaceships 0800 772 237, spaceshipsrentals.co.nz

Standby Cars 0800 789 059, standbycars.co.nz

United Campervans 09 275 9919, unitedcampervans.co.nz

Wicked Campers 0800 246 870,wickedcampers.co.nz

AIRLINESAir New Zealand 1800 737 000, airnewzealand.co.nz

Air Pacific Fiji flights 0800 800 178, airpacific.com

Emirates 050 836 4728, emirates.com

Jetstar 0800 800 995, jetstar.com

Qantas 0800 808 767, qantas.com.au

Virgin Australia 0800 670 000, virginaustralia.com

Webjet Flights comparison website. webjet.com.au

FERRIESInterislander Linking Wellington and Picton. 0800 802 802, interislander.co.nz

ZORBINGTrust the wacky adrenalin junky New Zealanders to come up with this craze. The concept is quite simple: you climb into an inflated plastic sphere, strap yourself in and then roll head-over-heels downhill, rotating within the sphere at speeds of up to 30km per hour. You can do it dry or you can take a wash cycle where you’ll get soaked. You’ll find in by Rotorua in the Agrodome. If you can’t wait to cross the Tasman, you can also give it a go on the Gold Coast. Get rolling!

ROLL WITH IT

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WHITEWATER SLEDGINGNear Rotorua, hit the grade 3 Kaituna River for $109 or the grade 5 Wairoa River for $299.Who needs a boat, eh? Perhaps one of the more novel and insane, yet brilliantly simple, adventure sports available. Started by some crazy Frenchmen back in the 70s, all you need is a wetsuit, helmet, life jacket, flippers, a healthy amount of guts, a small board and you’re off – flying through the rapids with a, er, fish’s eye view.

kaitiaki.co.nz

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Princeton Backpackers 30 Symonds St. 09 963 8300, [email protected]

Queen Street Backpackers (VIP) 4 Fort St. 09 373 3471, [email protected]

Uenuku Lodge (BBH) 217 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby. 09 378 8990

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

The Brown Kiwi (BBH) 7 Prosford St, Ponsonby.09 378 0191, brownkiwi.co.nz

Verandahs (BBH) 6 Hopetown St. 09 360 4180

Yaping’s House (BBH) 79 Owens Rd, Epsom. 09 623 4486, [email protected]

Uenuku Lodge (BBH) 217 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby. 09 378 8990

YHA Auckland City Cnr City Rd & Liverpool St. 09 378 8990

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

AUCKLAND DOExplorer BusSightseeing around Auckland, 0800 439 756explorerbus.co.nz

On the Road Tours and ChartersSightseeing bus tours of Auckland and the north shore. 0800 486 877, ontheroad.co.nz

Harbour FerriesFerries can take you all over the harbour. Info about timetables and destinations available at the Ferry Building on Quay St. 09 424 5561

America’s Cup Sailing Experience

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

i-SITE Auckland Atrium, skycity, Cnr Federal & Victoria Sts

Backpackers World Travel16-20 Fort St, 09 379 4126, backpackersworld.com

Base Travel Level 3, 229 Queen St, 09 358 4874, basetravel.com

i-SITE Visitor Information287 Queen St, 09 979 2333, [email protected]

Ferry Tickets Online(For inter-island ferry services) 39 Beach Rd, 0800 500 660, ferrytickets.co.nz

Parks Information Centre Details on tramping, camping grounds, the Gulf Islands and exploring the regional parks. 21 Pitt St, open Mon-Fri, 09 366 2000

Airport Transport The airport is 21km from the city and shuttle buses run every half an hour. Airbus Airport is every 20 mins.0800 247 287, airbus.co.nz

City busesTickets and timetables are available from the 10 central city Star Mart stores.09 366 6400

Auckland InterCity Travel CentreBuses around Auckland and the rest of New Zealand leave from here. Located beside the casino, Hobson St, 09 623 1503

Train Intercity trains arrive and depart from Britomart, 12 Queen St, Auckland. 09 270 5211

AUCKLAND STAYAirport Skyway Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 30 Kirkbride Road, Mangere.09 275 4443, skywaylodge.co.nz

Albert Park Backpackers (VIP) 27-31 Victoria St East. 09 309 0336, [email protected]

Auckland International Backpackers (BBH) 2 Churton St, Parnell.+64358 4584,

Base Auckland 229 Queen St. 0800 227 369, stayatbase.com

Bamber House (BBH) 22 View Rd, Mt Eden. 09 623 4267, hostelbackpacker.com

BK Hostel (BBH)

3 Mercury Ln, Central. 09 307 0052, [email protected]

Central City Backpackers 26 Lorne St. 09 358 5685, backpacker.net.nz

City Garden Lodge 25 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell.09 302 0880

City Groove Backpackers (BBH) 6 Constitutional Hill, Parnell.09 303 4768, [email protected]

Georgia Parkside Backpackers 189 Park Rd, Grafton.09 309 8999, [email protected]

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

Kiwi International Airport 150 McKenzie Road, Mangere.0800 801 919, [email protected]

Lantana Lodge (BBH) 60 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell. 09 373 4546, [email protected]

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

New Zealand Backpackers 8 Nixon St, Ponsonby. 09 376 3871, [email protected]

Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort St.09 300 9999, nomadshostels.com

Oaklands Lodge (BBH) 5A Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden.09 638 6545, oaklands.co.nz

Pentlands (BBH) 22 Pentland Ave, Mt Eden.+64 9638 7031

Ponsonby Backpackers (BBH) 2 Franklin Rd, Ponsonby. 09 360 1311, [email protected]

A unique opportunity to participate as crew on an actual America’s Cup yacht. Take the helm, exert energy on the grinders or simply sit back and enjoy the action as you sail the beautiful Waitemata Harbour. The two hour sails departs daily from the Auckland Viaduct. No experience necessary. 0800 397 567, explorenz.co.nz

Auckland MuseumSee the world’s finest collection of Maori and Pacific Island artefacts. Explore New Zealand’s natural history, discover the largest bird that ever lived and experience a Maori cultural show. 09 306 7067, aucklandmuseum.com

Auckland Zoo See kiwi birds in the nocturnal house and over 900 animals. 09 360 3800, aucklandzoo.co.nz

Coast to Coast WalkwayA walk between Waitemata Harbour and Manukau Harbour. It takes about four hours and takes in Albert Park, Auckland Uni, Auckland Domain, Mt Eden, and One Tree Hill.

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

Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World A seawater aquarium with a moving walkway through a transparent underwater cavern. Antarctic Encounter is a recreation of an Antarctic environment where you jump on a snow mobile and tour a penguin colony, get attacked by an orca whale. Orakei Wharf, Tamaki Drive, 09 528 0603, kellytarltons.co.nz

Mt Eden The highest point in the city, 4km south of the city centre with spectacular views. Get there by bus.

NZ National Maritime MuseumThe museum celebrates NZ’s maritime heritage. 09 373 0800, nzmaritime.org

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

Queen StreetAuckland’s main boulevard with shops, cafés and restaurants.

Whale & Dolphin Safari See whales and dolphins from Auckland’s doorstep. The Hauraki Gulf is considered one of the most biologically and geographically diverse marine parks in the world. See dolphins, whales, sea birds and/or even penguins. Dolphins are viewed on over 90% and whales on 75% of trips. Departs daily from the Auckland Viaduct. Dolphin viewing guaranteed. 0800 397 567, explorenz.co.nz

Fullers Cruises Inner harbour cruises and longer cruises to Hauraki Gulf islands, with all-day passes and hop-on, hop-off options. 09 367 9111.

Pride of Auckland The Pride of Auckland operates an impressive fleet of large, purpose-built yachts on the sheltered waters of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour and is world famous for its sailing and dining cruises. Join them for a coffee, lunch, dinner, Waiheke sailing experience cruise or a full-day sailing adventure and experience the “City of Sails” for what it is known for. 0800 397 567, explorenz.co.nz

Auckland Bridge ClimbUp and over the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Westhaven Reserve, Curran St, Herne Bay, 0800 286 4958, ajhackett.com

Auckland Harbour Bridge JumpNZ’s only ocean touch bungy, 40m high. Westhaven Reserve, Curran St, Herne Bay, 0800 286 4958, ajhackett.co.nz

Canyonz Ltd Explore subtropical canyons and abseil down crashing waterfalls. 0800 422 696, canyonz.co.nz

New Zealand Surf Tours09 832 9622, newzealandsurftours.com

Sky Jump Fall from the top of the 192m Sky Tower, 0800 759 586, skyjump.co.nz

Sky Walk Walk around the external 1.2m wide platform, 192m up. 09 368 1835, skywalk.co.nz

Fullers Bay of Islands ToursOne, two and three-day tours from Auckland. 09 358 0259, boitc.co.nz

Awesome AdventuresThree-day Bay of Islands tours. 0800 658 058, awesomenz.com

Beaches Auckland is surrounded by great beaches, including Judges Bay, Kohimarama, Okahu Bay, St Heliers Bay and popular Mission Bay.

Aotea Square MarketsEvery Friday and Saturday at Aotea Square, Queen St. NZ fashion labels, retro gear, foods, Pacific-style crafts, jewellery and furniture, 09 309 2677, the-edge.co.nz

Victoria Park Market3km from the CBD, an outdoor market with fruit, veggies, books, clothes and handicrafts.

GREAT BARRIER

HEATH FRANKLIN’S CHOPPEROpera House. Nov 24. From $36.90 The foul mouthed crim with the razor sharp turn of phrase, Heath Franklin makes Chopper Read laugh out loud funny.

Wellington CBD ticketmaster.co.nz

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The island is dominated by a native forest a network of criss-crossing tracks. greatbarrier.co.nz

Orama Resort (YHA) Karaka Bay Rd, 09 429 0063, yha.co.nz

Stray Possum Lodge (VIP)09 429 0109,[email protected]

BARRIER DOFullers Cruises Depart from the Ferry Building. 09 367 9102

Great Barrier AirlinesFly out of Auckland Airport or Auckland Shore Airfield. 0800 900 600,

Fullers Great Barrier ExplorersCruise and tours, summer only (October-April). 09 367 9111

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

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

Waiheke Island Hostel Seaview Road, Onetangi, Ph: (09) 372 8971,waihekehostel.co.nz

NORTHLANDThe “winterless north” is Northland’s famous tag. The sub-tropical climate is good all year round and the area boasts some of the best beaches in NZ. Highlights include Ninety Mile Beach, Kerikeri and the beautiful Bay of Islands.

HELENSVILLEThe hot springs here have indoor and outdoor thermal pools and waterslides.

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

HIBISCUS COASTWhangaparaoa Peninsula. A popular holiday spot, the peninsula offers water sport opportunities from windsurfing to boating. Busy in summer, this whole area is popular with bushwalkers.

Hisbiscus Coast Visitor Info Hibiscus Coast Hwy, 09 426 0076.

Marco Polo Backpackers Inn (BBH) 2d Hammond Ave, Hatfields Beach,09 426 8455, marcopolo.co.nz

PAKIRI BEACHFamous for its white sand and isolation, there are several coastal walks here and gorgeous views.

WAIPUCome to Waiku for snorkelling, fishing and exploring the caves. The Bream Bay Coast is a magnificent expanse of white sparkling sand just 30 mins drive from the city.

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

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

WHANGAREIThe waterfront has been developed in the style of the early settlers (except with cafés, restaurants and galleries) and Mount Parahaki towers 241m above the city. Stroll along enticing beaches and dive at Poor Knights Islands. one of the world’s top diving sites. Also pay a visit to petty Whangerei Falls.

Whangarei I-SITE Visitor Centre92 Otaika Rd, 09 438 1079

WHANGAREI STAYBunkdown Lodge (BBH)23 Otaika Road, 09 438 8886, bunkdownlodge.co.nz

Coastal Cow Backpackers (BBH)299 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai Heads, 09 431 5444,[email protected]

Little Earth Lodge (BBH) 85 Abbey Caves Road, 09 430 6562, littleearthlodge.co.nz

Piano Hill Farm (BBH)Piano Hill, Kauri, 09 433 7090, thefarm.co.nz

Whangarei Falls Backpackers (BBH) Ngunguru Road, Glenbervie, 09 437 0609,whangereifalls.co.nz

YHA Whangarei, Manaakitanga

52 Punga Grove Ave, 09 438 8954, yha.co.nz

WHANGAREI DODive! TutukakaPoor Knights Islands dives, plus tours with kayaking, cave explorations, snorkelling, swimming, sea mammal-spotting.

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

AwesomeNZ Tours include Maori mythology, dolphin swimming and fast boats. Maritime Building, on the waterfront, 0800 653 339, awesomenz.com

Bay of Islands i-SiteThe Wharf, Marsden Rd, Freephone: 09 402 7345

Base Travel 18 Kings Rd, 09 402 7111, basetravel.com

PAIHIA STAYBase Pipi Patch 18 Kings Rd09 402 7111, stayatbase.com

Captain Bob’s Beachhouse (BBH) 44 Davis Cres, 09 402 8668, [email protected]

Centabay Lodge (BBH)27 Selwyn Rd, 09 402 7466,[email protected]

Mayfair Lodge (BBH)7 Puketona Rd, 09 402 7471,bay-of-islands.co.nz/accomm/ mayfair.html

Mousetrap (BBH) 11 Kings Rd, 09 402 8182,[email protected]

Peppertree Lodge (BBH)15 Kings Rd, 09 402 6122,

peppertree.co.nz

Pickled Parrot Backpackers (BBH) Grey’s Lane, 09 402 6222, [email protected]

Saltwater Lodge (BBH) 14 Kings Rd, 0800 002 266, saltwaterlodge.co.nz

YHA Paihia Cnr Kings and MacMurray Rds, Paihia, 09 402 7487, yha.co.nz

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

Opua Forest The DOC provides a leaflet of forest walks, which features a small stand of Kauri trees. Drive into the forest via Oromahoe Rd or walk from School Rd.

Te Rawhiti Cape Brett WalkwayGuided tours include experienced local Maori guides, all meals, hut accommodation, transport by boat to hut taking in the famous Hole in the Rock, Maori culture, myths and legends and hangi, 09 403 7248

Waitangi Treaty GroundsThe site where the historic Treaty of Waitangi was signed. Also see carvings that represent all Maori tribes in NZ and one of the largest ceremonial waka (canoe) in the world, launched every Waitangi Day (Feb 6). \09 402 7437, waitangi.net.nz

Boat cruises & dolphin watchingCape Brett “Hole in the Rock” Cruise Four-hour cruises, 09 402 7421

Dolphin DiscoveriesWith the warmest water and friendliest dolphins (bottlenoses), this is a great place for swimming with the dolphins (conditions permitting). The high-speed luxury catamaran offers easy access to the water and hot showers. Or do a “Hole in the Rock and Dolphin Viewing Experience” and see dolphins, whales, birds and other wildlife. Visit Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island during your island stop and explore this amazing place. 0800 365 744, explorenz.co.nz

Dune Rider Unique Adventure Tour Make your way up to Cape Reinga while traveling to the Gumdiggers Park and drive along the famous Ninety Mile Beach. Climb huge sand dunes and boogie board back down on the way and stop at the world famous Mangonui Fish Shop for fish and chips. Departing daily from Paihia. 0800 365 744, explorenz.co.nz

Excitor “Hole in the Rock” Adventure One-and-a-half hours,

0800 653 339,excitor.co.nz

Lion New Zealand – “The Ultimate Day Sail in the Bay”Join Lion New Zealand, NZ’s most famous maxi yacht. Enjoy a fresh BBQ lunch and activities such as kayaking, snorkelling, natural walks at Otehei Bay or simply kick back and enjoy the island atmosphere.0800 365 744,[email protected]

Overnight Cruises The Rock24-hour cruise featuring kayaking, snorkelling with stingrays, fishing for your dinner, dolphin spotting.0800 762 527, rocktheboat.co.nz

Awesome Cape ReingaVia Ninety Mile Beach – learn Maori myths and legends, navigate the quicksand stream, ride the dunes, visit a thousand year old forest. 0800 653 339, awesomenz.com

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

Information Centre End of the Pier, 09 403 8020

RUSSELL STAYThe Coast Road Farm (BBH)Coast Rd, Whangaruru, 09 433 6894,thefarm.co.nz

Ferry Landing (BBH) 395A Aucks Rd, Okiato Point, 09 403 7985,[email protected]

Wainui (BBH) 92D Te Wahapu Rd, 09 403 8278, [email protected]

KERIKERIA highlight of the sparsely populated town is the wonderful Maori village. There is also an historic Maori pa (fortress) and the Kerikeri Mission Station.

Dept of Conservation Office09 407 8474

KERIKERI STAYKerikeri Top 10 Holiday Park & Aranga BackpackersAranga Drive off Kerikeri Rd, 09 407 9326, kerikeritop10.co.nz

Hideaway Lodge Wiroa Rd, 0800 562 746

Hone Heke Lodge (BBH) 65 Hone Heke Rd, 09 407 8170, kerikeri.net/honeheke

Kerikeri Farm Hostel (BBH)Ph: (09) 407 6989,[email protected]

NRTH BAY OF ISLi-Site Far North South Rd in Jaycee Park.

DON’T MISS!

A WILD NIGHT WITH BEAR GRYLLS Vector Arena. Dec 3. From $49. The intrepid Englishman with a killer sense of adventure drops into NZ for a whirlwind trip talking about his death defying trips.

Mahuhu Cresent, Auckland ticketmaster.co.nz

NORTHISLANDlike us on facebook/tntdownunder

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09 408 0879, [email protected]

Farm Backpackers (BBH) End of Lamb Rd, Pukenui, 09 409 7863,[email protected]

North Wind Lodge Backpackers (BBH) Otaipango Rd, Henderson Bay, 09 409 8515,[email protected]

Pukenui Lodge Hostel (BBH)Cnr SH1 & Wharf Rd, Pukenui, 09 4098837,[email protected]

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

The Welcome Swallow BackpackersOff Matauri Bay Road,09 4051 019,welcomeswallow.com

The Rainbow Warrior A monument to the noble but doomed Greenpeace ship, Rainbow Warrior, sits on the site of a Maori pa on the headland at Matauri Bay. Travellers come here to dive the ship’s wreck.

WHANGAROAThis area was once well known for its Kauri forests, but these days it’s more about game fishing. The scenery is ruggedly spectacular and sailing cruises are popular.

Tourist info centre Boyd Gallery, 09 405 0230.

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

DOUBTLESS BAYLess touristy than the Bay of Islands, the area around Doubtless is made up of tiny bays and coves, beach resorts and historical villages.

KARIKARI PENINThe Rusty Anchor (BBH)1 Tokerau Beach Rd, 09 406 7141, [email protected]

TAIPAA tiny village with a boat-dotted harbour. You can swim with dolphins, hire boats or kayaks, and swim at the beautiful Coopers Beach. Taipa is worth visiting for its pretty beach.

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

Backpackers Heaven (VIP)Wagener Holiday Park, Houhora Heads, 09 409 8564, [email protected]

DARGAVILLEOn the road from Hokianga, the famous “Big Trees”, the native kauri trees of Waipoua Kauri Forest. Once in Dargaville, attractions include the masts from the ill-fated Rainbow Warrior and the fascinating bird sanctuary nearby.

Dargaville Info Centre 61 Normanby St, 09 439 8360.

DARGAVILLE STAYDargaville Holiday Park (VIP) 10 Onslow St, 09 439 8296, [email protected]

Kaihu Farm (BBH)RD6, Kaihu, 09 439 4004,[email protected]

The Greenhouse Hostel (BBH)13 Portland St, 09 439 6342,[email protected]

MATAKOHETravellers Lodge (BBH) 64 Jellicoe Rd, Ruawai, 09 439 2283

Kauri Country Northland3hr 4WD eco-adventures, including free ticket to Kauri Museum. Devon Grove, Matakohe, 09 431 6007

WAIKATOWaikato District Info Centre160 Great South Rd, Huntly, 07 828 6406

Shekinah (BBH) 122 Pungapunga Rd, Pukekawa, 09 233 4464,[email protected]

HAMILTONHamilton is NZ’s largest inland city and is known for its parks and gardens.

Hamilton Visitor Centre5 Garden Place, Hamilton07 958 5960visithamilton.co.nz

DOC Office Level 5, Rostrevor St.

HAMILTON STAYColts n Fillies (BBH) 37 Smith Rd, Karamu, 07 825 9809,ktt.co.nz

Forty Winks (BBH) 267 River Rd, Claudelands, 07 855 2033, [email protected]

J’s Backpackers (BBH) 8 Grey Street, 07 856 8934,jsbackpackers.co.nz

HAMILTON DOWaikato Museum of Art & History Cnr Victoria and Grantham Sts. More than 3,000 items, with a permanent Maori War canoe. Gold coin donations welcomed.

Main Street Lodge (BBH) 235 Commerce St, 09 408 1275, [email protected]

Pukenui Lodge (YHA)Corner Wharf Rd & State Hwy 1, Houhora, 09 409 8837,yha.co.nz

Waitiki LandingFar North Rd, 09 409 7508

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

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

Pack or Paddle Thoms Landing, 09 4098 445, [email protected]

90 MILE BEACHThe west coast of the Far North Peninsula is Ninety Mile Beach,a beautiful strip of coastline that takes you way up to Cape Reinga.

AHIPARAThis is the best spot for sand-tobogganing, located at the south end of Ninety Mile Beach.

YHA Ahipara Backpackers & Motor Camp 168-170 TakeheSt, 09 409 4864, yha.co.nz

Farm Backpackers (BBH) End of Lamb Rd, Pukenui, 09 409 7863 [email protected]

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

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

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

Hokianga Information 09 405 8869, [email protected]

HOKIANGA STAYOkopako Lodge (BBH) 140 Mountain Rd, South Hokianga, 09 405 8815,

Globe Trekkers Lodge (BBH)SH12, Omapere, 09 405 8183.

Waitawa Farm Hostel (BBH)164 Pukemiro Rd, 09 409 5809, [email protected]

MATAMATARural town famous for being turned into Hobbiton in those films – some of the set still stands.

Hobbiton Backpackers 81 Arawa St, 07 888 9972, [email protected]

CAMBRIDGEThis very Olde English town with its town square and abundance of trees is in the heart of Waikato. The region is famous for its horses and jetboating.

Cambridge Tourist Info Centre Cnr Queen and Victoria Sts, 07 823 3456

RAGLANOne of New Zealand’s best-known surfing beaches, Raglan is situated 48km west of Hamilton.

Raglan Information Centre2 Wainui Rd,07 825 0556

RAGLAN STAYEwe Dream’Inn (BBH)2458 State Highway 22, Glen Murray, 09 233 3144,glenmurray.net

Raglan Backpackers & Waterfront Lodge (BBH)6 Wi Neera St, 07 825 0515, raglanbackpackers.co.nz

Karioi Backpacker Lodge (VIP, BBH) & Raglan Surfing School 5 Whaanga Rd, Whale Bay, 07 825 7873, karioilodge.co.nz

Solcape Accommodation Centre (BBH) 611 Wainui Rd, 07 825 8268

Waikatoa Beach Lodge (BBH)8 Centreway Rd, Sunset Beach, Port Waikato, 09 232 9961,sunsetbeach.co.nz

TE AWAMUTUGiven that it calls itself the “Rose Town of New Zealand”, it’s not surprising the 2,000-strong Rose Garden is the town’s major attraction.

Te Awamutu Info Centre1 Gorst Ave, 07 871 3259.

Te Awamutu District Museum135 Roche St. 07 872 0085

KAWHIAThe main attraction of this peaceful port town, 55km south of Raglan, is the Maketu Marae where you can experience the rich cultural tapestry of NZ’s indigenous history.

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

Otorohanga Visitor Info Centre

26 Maniapoto St, otorohanga.co.nz

WAITOMODefinitely one of the best adventure spots in New Zealand. There are a range of caving adventures, from glowworm ogling, to long dramatic abseils deep towards the centre of the earth and excellent blackwater rafting (jump in an inner tube and let the underwater current carry you).

Waitomo Caves Discovery Centre 21 Waitomo Caves Rd, 0800 474 839. waitomodiscovery.org

WAITOMO STAYJuno Hall (BBH) 07 878 7649

Kiwipaka School Rd, 07 878 3395

Rap Raft & Rock Backpackers (BBH) 95 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 873 9149, [email protected]

WAITOMO DODundle Hill Walk A two-day walk through native bush; limestone outcrops includes overnight with spectacular views at Kays Cabin. 0800 924 866

Marakopa Falls, Managapohue Natural Bridge and Piri Piri Cave,30 minutes drive from Waitomo.

Rap Raft ‘n’ Rock Blackwater adventures combining abseiling, rafting, glowworms, caving and rockclimbing all in one five-hour adventure. 0800 228 372, caveraft.com

The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co Cave tubing in the blackness of the Ruakuri Cave river. 585 Waitomo Caves Rd, 0800 228 464, blackwaterrafting.co.nz

Woodlyn Park Pioneer Show, caving adventure, and quirky accommodation in a 1950s train carriage. Waitomo Valley Road, 07 878 6666.

TE KUITILocated 19km south of Otorohanga, Te Kuiti is known as “The Shearing Capital of the World”. There’s also a magnificent Maori marae (meeting house) here.

Te Kuiti Information CentreRora St, 07 878 8077.

Dept of Conservation 78 Taupiri Street, 07 878 1080.

Tiffany’s Tearooms, Rora St, 07 878 7640

TE KUITI STAYCasara Mesa Backpackers (BBH)Mangarino Rd, 07 878 6697,[email protected]


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Backpackers (BBH, VIP, YHA)506 Brown St, 07 868 8808,[email protected]

Te Aroha YHA HostelMiro Street, Te Aroha (south of Thames), 07 884 8739, yha.co.nz

FOREST PARKThere are heaps of walks to choose from. The Colville Range is the most popular but the Department of Conservation in the Kauaeranga Valley is the place to begin.

COROMANDELSome 55km north of Thames is the town of Coromandel, home to the popular Driving Creek Railway.

Coromandel Information CentreKapanga Rd, 07 866 8598.

CORO STAYAnchor Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 448 Wharf Rd, 07 866 7992, anchorlodgecoromandel.co.nz

Black Jack Backpackers (BBH)Kuaotunu, 07 866 2988,black-jack.co.nz

Colville Farm (BBH) 2140 Colville Road, Colville,

07 866 6820

Coromandel Town Backpackers (BBH) 732 Rings Road, 07 866 8830

Lions Den (BBH) 126 Te Tiki St, 07 866 8157

Tidewater Tourist Park (YHA) 270 Tiki Rd, 07 866 8888, yha.co.nz

Tui Lodge (BBH) 60 Whangapoua Rd, 07 866 8237, [email protected]

OPOUTEREThis is a good place to go to just chill out. The beach here is glorious and generally empty. Skinny dip anyone?

YHA Opoutere 389 Opoutere Rd, 07 865 9072, yha.co.nz

WHANGAMATAA real surfie town, Whangamata has one of the best surf beaches in New Zealand and a laidback atmosphere to match.

Whangamata Info Centre616 Port Rd, 07 865 8340

Southpacific Accommodation

KING COUNTRYThe King Country is the region south of the Waikato and the Maori influence has remained strong with the opportunity to experience Maoritanga (the Maori way).

COROMANDEL PENA series of towns loop around the peninsula, broken by rolling green hills. Highlights include Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove and the cosy little Coromandel township.

THAMESA great canyoning spot, with loads of natural pools and waterslides.

Information Thames206 Poland St, 07 868 7284

DOC Office 07 868 6381

Canyonz Ltd 0800 422 696,canyonz.co.nz

THAMES STAYDickson Holiday ParkVictoria St, 07 868 7308,

Gateway Backpackers (BBH)209 Mackay St, 07 868 6339,[email protected]

The Sunkist International

(BBH) Cnr Port Rd and Mayfair Avenue, 07 865 9580, thesouthpacific.co.nz

Whangamata Backpackers Hostel (BBH) 227 Beverley Tce, 07 865 8323

WHITIANGAWhitianga, perched on pretty Mercury Bay, is the most popular stop-off point for travellers on the Coromandel. You can learn to make your very own bone carving, dive and surf to your heart’s content.

Whitianga Information Centre66 Albert St, 07 866 5555

Baywatch Backpackers (VIP)22 The Esplanade, 07 866 5481, [email protected]

Cathedral Cove Lodge Villas (VIP) 41 Harsant Ave, Hahei Beach, 07 866 3889.

Cat’s Pyjamas Backpackers (BBH) 12 Albert St, 07 866 4663.

Fernbird (BBH) 24 Harsant Ave, Hahei, 07 866 3080, [email protected]

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

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

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

WHITIANGA DOHot Water Beach & Cathedral Cove Rated as one of the world’s 10 best beaches, Hot Water Beach is an unusual phenomenon. For two hours either side of low tide you can dig a hole in the sand and sit in your very own thermal spa pool.

BAY OF PLENTYThe Bay of Plenty, extending from the Coromandel Peninsula to the East Cape, was named by Captain Cook in honour of both the fertile nature of the region and the friendly local Maoris he encountered. Activities include paragliding, sky diving, white water rafting, 4WD safaris, gliding, jet boating and swimming with dolphins.

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

Tauranga i-site 95 Willow St,

07 578 8103

Department of Conservation 253 Chadwick Rd West,07 578 7677

TAURANGA STAYAppletree Cottage 47 Maxwell Rd, 07 5767404,[email protected]

Bell Lodge (BBH) 39 Bell St, 07 578 6344, bell-lodge.co.nz

Harbourside City Backpackers (BBH) 105 The Strand, 07 579 4066, backpacktauranga.co.nz

Just The Ducks Nuts Backpackers (BBH) 6 Vale St, 07 576 1366, justtheducksnuts.co.nz

Loft 109 (BBH) 8/109 Devonport Rd, 07 579 5638, loft109.co.nz

Tuaranga Central Backpackers64 Willow St, 07 571 6222,tgabackpack.co.nz

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

TAURANGA DOButlers Swim With Dolphins0508 288 537

Waimarino Adventure Park07 576 4233

Coyote Bar and Restaurant107 The Strand, 07 578 8968, coyotes.com

MT MAUNGANUIHome to Ocean Beach which, at 15km long, is considered by locals to be among the finest surfing in the country. The town stands at the foot of Mt Maunganui, a slab of rock 232m high, around which you can appreciate stunning views.

Mt Maunganui Visitor CentreSalisbury Ave, 07 575 5099

Te Puke Information Centre130 Jellicoe St, 07 573 9172

MAUNGA STAYHairy Berry Backpackers (BBH)2 No One Rd, Te Puke, 07 573 8015, [email protected]

Mount Backpackers (BBH)87 Maunganui Rd, 07 575 0860, mountbackpackers.co.nz

Pacific Coast Backpackers (BBH)432 Maunganui Rd, 0800 666 622, pacificcoastlodge.co.nz

MAUNGA DOKiwifruit Country Young Rd, Te Puke, 07 573 6340,

AUCKLAND ZOOJust west of Downtown Auckland. Adult tickets are $22. Boasting New Zealand’s largest collection of animals, this zoo has also been called one of the most progressive in the world. It is home to 138 different species and over 860 animals and has its very own native New Zealand section with unique, regional plants and animals. The rainforest section is very popular as you can get up close and personal with the primates.

MUST-VISIT

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Damian Hall, UKSEEN MUCH OF THE NORT ISLAND? Up to the Bay of Islands,

around the East Cape, all the middle bits and down to Wellington.

Rotorua as well, which was fun.

FAVOURITE SPOT? I loved the Tongariro Crossing so much I went

back and did it again (stay in one of the huts and get up early to

climb Mt Doom/Ngauruhoe).

BEST SPOT FOR A NIGHT OUT? Couldn’t tell you where how or who

exactly, but defi nitely Wellington. All’s well that ends Wellington.

WORD FROM THE STREET

NORTHISLANDlike us on facebook/tnt downunder

kiwifruitcountry.co.nz

Te Puke Vintage Auto Barn, 26 Young Rd, 07 573 6547

WHAKATANEFor a very different adventure, visit White Island, an active volcano where sulphur-lipped fumeroles and roaring steam vents create a stark wonderland.

Karibu Backpackers (BBH)13 Landing Rd, 07 307 8276

Lloyds Lodge (BBH)10 Domain Rd, 07 307 8005

The Windsor (BBH) 10 Merritt St, Whakatane, 07 308 8040, [email protected]

WHAKATANE DODive White 168 The Strand, 0800 348 394, divewhite.co.nz

White Island Tours Departs Whakatane daily. 0800 733 529

ROTORUA

Rotorua is a must for three reasons: the abundance of accessible Maori culture, the steaming volcanic scenery and adrenalin thrills. Visit the bubbling mud at Whaka, take a dip in a thermal bath and pig out on a hangi at a Maori concert. Even the air here is special – it’s heavy with sulphur. You’ll smell it the moment you arrive.

Tourism Rotorua & Visitor Info Centre 1167 Fenton St,07 348 5179

ROTORUA STAYBase Rotorua 1286 Arawa St, 0800 227 369, stayatbase.com

Cactus Jack Backpackers (BBH)1210 Haupapa St, 07 348 3121, [email protected]

Crank Backpackers 1140 Hinemoa St, 07 348 0852, crankbackpackers.co.nz

Crash Palace Backpackers (BBH, VIP) 1271 Hinemaru St, 07 348 8842, [email protected]

Planet Nomad Backpackers (VIP)1193 Fenton St, 07 346 2831, [email protected]

Rotorua Central Backpackers (BBH) 1076 Pukuatua St, 07 349 3285, [email protected]

Spa Lodge (BBH)1221 Amohau St, 07 348 3486, [email protected]

ROTORUA DOAgroventures Five adrenalin activities in one adventure park, including bungy jumping, sprint boats and a wind tunnel. 1335 Paradise Valley Rd. 07 357 4747, agroventures.co.nz

Hell’s GateMud baths to heal and stimulate your body 07 345 3151

Kaitiaki AdventuresExtreme whitewater activities. Sledging and rafting trips on the Kaituna and Rangitaiki Rivers, 0800 338 736, kaitiaki.co.nz

NZONE SkydiveSkydive from 15,000ft over Rotorua, 07 345 7250, nzone.biz

Off Road NZSprint car racing, Monster 4X4, 4WD Bush Safari and more.

07 332 5748,offroadnz.co.nz

Polynesian SpaHistorical hot mineral water bathing spa on the edge of Lake Rotorua. 07 348 1328, [email protected]

Raftabout Whitewater rafting and sledging. 0800 723 822,raftabout.co.nz

Skyline Skyrides SpectacularGet the best views and luge down 5km of tracks, or take the 150ft skyswing. 07 347 0027, skylineskyrides.co.nz

Waikite Hot Pools Natural hot spring water bathing. Provides private spas, BBQ area and campground facilities, 20 minutes south of Rotorua. 07 333 1861

Waimangu Volcanic ValleyThe location of the Pink and White Terraces which were destroyed in the 1886 volcanic eruption.

Wet ‘n’ Wild RaftingGuided rafting options on five different rivers – the Wairoa,

Rangitaiki, Kaituna, Motu and Mohaka. 0800 462 7238, wetnwildrafting.co.nz

Zorbing Get harnessed inside the perspex Zorb before rolling head-over-heels downhill. 07 357 5100, zorb.com

MAORI CULTUREWhile you’re here, take the opportunity to see how the Maori lived before European settlment. The Maori Arts and Crafts Institute in Whakarewarewa is a good place to begin. nzmaori.co.nz.

NZ Maori Arts & Crafts Institute07 348 9047

The Realm of Tane A blend of guided tour, character theatre and story telling within a series of magical sets. 1220 Hinemaru St, 07 349 2999, maoriculture.co.nz

Rotoiti Tours0800 476 864

Tamaki Maori VillageTours, hangi and concert. Hinemaru St, 07 349 2999,maoriculture.co.nz

JETBOAT - SLEDGE - KARTING - ZORB - MONSTER TRUCK - SWOOP - LUGE

RAFT - SKYDIVE - MUD POOL - HANGI - HELI/RAFT - MOUNTAINBIKING & MORE

www.rotoruacombos.com FREEPHONE 0800 338 786

COMBINE ROTORUA’S LEADING

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES!

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WAIROAWairoa is a large town, great as a stop-over before heading into the area’s main attraction: the gorgeous Te Urewera National Park.

Wairoa Visitor Information Centre Queen St, 06 838 7440

Haere Mai Cottage (BBH)49 Mitchell Rd, 06 838 6817

DOC office for hut bookings Lake Waikaremoana, 06 837 3900

NAPIERNapier is a beautiful, surprising city. Its “pleasing to the eye” status is actually the result of an enormous earthquake which meant the entire town had to be rebuilt.

Visitor Info Centre 100 Marine Parade, 06 834 1911

Depart of Conservation Office Marine Parade, 06 834 3111

NAPIER STAYAqua Lodge (BBH) 53 Nelson Cres, 06 835 4523,[email protected]

Criterion Art Deco Backpackers (VIP, Roamfree) 48 Emerson St, 06 835 2059, criterionartdeco.co.nz

Napier Prison Backpackers (BBH) 55 Coote Rd, 06 835 9933,

National Park Backpackers YHA (BBH) Finlay St. The hostel runs transport to the Tongariro Crossing, 07 892 2870, npbp.co.nz

Plateau Lodge & Motel (BBH)Carroll St, National Park,07 892 2993,[email protected]

Ski Haus (BBH) Carroll St, McKenzie St, 07 892 2854, skihaus.co.nz

MT RUAPEHUThe park’s showcase is Mt Ruapehu, an active volcano towering at 2,796m.

Ruapehu Visitors’ Centre54 Clyde St, 06 385 8427

Whakapapa Visitor Centre SH 48, Whakapapa Village, 07 892 3729

RANGITIKEIThe Rangitikei District is a top destination for adventure sports. Amongst stunning scenery, you can navigate grade five whitewater and take the leap of elasticated faith from an 80m bungy.

The Stockmans Lodge (BBH)9 Dixon Way, 06 388 1584,[email protected]

River Valley Dorms06 388 1444,[email protected]

RANGITIKEI DOMokai Gravity CanyonExtreme flying fox, bridge swing and bungy jump. 0800 802 864

River Valley Rafting and horse trekking. 06 388 1444, [email protected]

EAST COASTThe East Coast is among the first places in the world to see the sun rise each morning. This is a relatively tourist-free area of New Zealand that has so much to offer that it can only be a matter of time before visitors begin to flock here.

OPOTIKIA summer holiday town which was once a large Maori settlement and the indigenous people maintain a strong presence here.

Opotiki Information CentreCnr St John and Elliot Sts, 07 315 3031

Central Oasis Backpackers (BBH)30 King St, 07 315 5165,[email protected]

Opotiki Backpackers Beach House (BBH) 7 Appleton Rd, Waiotahi Beach, 07 315 5117,

Whakarewarewa Thermal VillageMaori village set amidst a landscape of geothermal wonders. Take a guided tour, see a cultural performance, check out Maori art. 07 349 3463, whakarewarewa.com

LAKE TAUPOLake Taupo used to be a hidden gem, but nowadays it’s the place to visit in the North Island, thanks to its wicked mix of adrenalin adventures, sedate lake life and after-dark partying.

Taupo Visitor Centre30 Tongariro St, 07 376 0027 laketauponz.com

TAUPO STAYBerkenhoff Lodge (BBH)75 Scannell St, 07 378 4909,[email protected]

Blackcurrant Backpackers (BBH) 20 Taniwha St, Ph: (07) 378 9292, [email protected]

Rainbow Lodge (BBH) 133 Summers St, Ph: (08) 9227-1818, [email protected]

Finns Global Backpackers (VIP) Cnr Tongariro & Tuwharetoa Sts, 07 377 0044, go-global.co.nz

Silver Fern Lodge Flash-Packers (VIP) Cnr Tamamutu & Kaimanawa Sts, 07 377 4929,silverfernlodges.co.nz

Sunset Lodge (BBH) 27 Tremain Ave, 07 378 5962, [email protected]

Base Taupo 7 Tuwharetoa St, 07 377 4464, stayatbase.com

Taupo Urban Retreat 65 Heu Heu St, 0800 872 261, tur.co.nz

Tiki Lodge 104 Tuwharetoa St, 0800 845 456, tikilodge.co.nz

YHA Taupo 56 Kaimanawa St, 07 378 3311, yha.co.nz

TAUPO DOCraters of the Moon One of the most geothermally active areas in the region, full of boiling mud and steaming craters. Wairakei Park.

Huka Falls Take a relaxing walk up to Huka Falls where the water pours over the 35ft drop at up to 62,000 gallons per second. The more energetic will enjoy the trek up Mt Tauhara where you will be rewarded with sweeping views.

Hukafalls Jet Jetboating by the falls. 0800 485 2538, hukafallsjet.com

Rock ‘n’ Ropes Ropes

Courses including the trapeze and Giant Swing. At Crazy Catz on Highway 5. 0800 244 508,rocknropes.co.nz

Taupo Bungy Bungy from a platform 47m above the Waikato River. 202 Spa Rd. 0800 888 408, taupobungy.com

Tongariro Crossing Transport and National Park Links From Taupo and Turangi during summer months (Nov-May). 07 377 0435,thetongarirocrossing.co.nz

Taupo Tandem SkydivingSkydive from up to 15,000 feet (over one minute freefall). Free shuttle, DVD and digital photos. Yellow Hangar, Taupo Airport. 0800 275 934, taupotandemskydiving.com

TURANGIOn the southern shores of Lake Taupo, Turangi is known as the trout fishing capital of the world. It offers heaps of outdoor adventure activities and is a good base for venturing into the Tongariro National Park.

Turangi Visitor CentreNgawaka Place, 07 386 8999

TURANGI STAYA Plus Backpackers (BBH)41 Iwiheke Pl, Turangi, 07 386 89 79, [email protected]

Club Habitat Backpackers Assoc YHA 25 Ohuanga Rd, 07 386 7492, yha.co.nz

Extreme Backpackers (BBH) 26 Ngawaka Place, 07 386 8949, extremebackpackers.co.nz

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

TONGARIROThe World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park, an extraordinary volcanic landscape which became Mordor in those films. Pop into the national park headquarters in Whakapapa.

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

Forest Lodge (BBH) Cnr Omaki and Ohorere Rds, Owhango, 07 895 4773, [email protected]

Howards Lodge (BBH) Carroll St, National Park, 07 892 2827, howardslodge.co.nz

YHA Matai Lodge (BBH) 1 Rata St, Ohakune, 06 385 9169, [email protected]

[email protected]

EAST CAPEAs you head around the Cape the towns get tinier and the scenery more dramatic. At Te Araroa, you can thead around to the East Cape Lighthouse.

Brians Place (BBH) Potae St, Tokomaru Bay, 06 864 5870, [email protected]

Eastender Backpacker & Horse Treks (BBH) 836 Rangitukia Rd, Tikitiki, 06 864 3820, [email protected]

Maraehako Bay Retreat (BBH) SH35, Whanarua Bay,07 325 2648.

Mel’s Place (BBH) Onepoto Beach Rd, Hicks Bay, 06 864 4694,[email protected]

GISBORNEGisborne is a peaceful surfie town that boasts diving, windsurfing, kayaking and whitewater rafting; try Wainui, Midway and Makarori beaches. You can also soak up the Maori heritage at one of the largest carved maraes in NZ.

Flying Nun Backpackers (BBH)147 Roebuck Rd, 06 868 0461, [email protected]

YHA Gisborne 32 Harris St, 06 867 3269, yha.co.nz

Clare Wilkes, EnglandHEY CLARE. DONE MUCH TRAVELLING? Christchurch, Wanaka and Queenstown

GOT A FAVOURITE PLACE? Wanaka is beautiful and a great place to spend a few hours just

walking around the lake then enjoying a coffee at one of the

lakeside cafes.

AND AFTER DARK? Mint Bar in Wanaka for drinking – they have great drinks

promotions every night


[email protected]

Waterfront Lodge & Backpackers (BBH) 217 Marine Pd, 06 835 3429, napierwaterfront.co.nz

YHA Napier 277 Marine Parade, 06 835 7039, yha.co.nz

HASTINGSHastings is 20km south of Napier and most notable for its fertile plains, which have given birth to a multitude of beautiful parks, gardens and farms.

A1 Backpackers (BBH) 122 Stortford St, 06 873 4285, [email protected]

Glenross Lodge (BBH) Route 52, Rakaunui, 06 376 7288, [email protected]

Lochlea Farmstay (BBH)344 Lake Rd, Wanstead, 06 8554 [email protected]

The Rotten Apple Backpackers (BBH) 114 Heretaunga St, 06 878 4363, rottenapple.co.nz

Travellers Lodge Hastings (BBH) 608 St Aubyn St, West Hastings, 06 878 7108, tlodge.co.nz

WAIRARAPAThe Wairarapa is a green, tree-lined region north-east of Wellington, famous for its wine and its many sheep – quintessential NZ.

MASTERTONHome to the impressive Queen Elizabeth Park, the Wairarapa Arts Centre, and the best-tasting icecream in New Zealand.

Chanel Backpackers 14-18 Herbert St, 06 378 2877

TARANAKIBest known for its snow-capped mountain, Mt Taranaki. Peaceful and impressive, Taranaki has skifields, excellent surf beaches, great walking and climbing.

MOKAUPalm House Backpackers (BBH)06 278 6523, taranaki-bakpak.co.nz

NEW PLYMOUTHTaranaki’s major town is New Plymouth. One of NZ’s finest art galleries is here (the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery). It hosts a

great café.

Department of Conservation 220 Devon St West, 06 758 0433

PLYMOUTH STAYEco Inn (BBH) 671 Kent Rd, between Egmont Village and New Plymouth on SH3. 06 752 2765

Egmont Lodge (BBH, YHA)12 Clawton St, 06 753 5720,yha.co.nz

Seaspray House (BBH)13 Weymouth St, 06 759 8934, [email protected]

Shoestring Backpackers (BBH)48 Lemon St, 06 758 0404

Sunflower Lodge (BBH)33 Timandra St, 06 758, 2842

The Missing Leg (BBH)1082 Junction Rd, Egmont Village, 06 752 2570,[email protected]

PLYMOUTH DOTaranaki Surf Charters 20 Beach Road, 025 592 306, [email protected]

MT TARANAKIThe Camphouse (BBH) 6 Egmont Rd, 02 74 538 975, [email protected]

Taranaki Accommodation Lodge (BBH) 7 Romeo St, Stratford, 06 765 5444, [email protected]

TARANAKI DOClimbing Mount TaranakiIt is possible to climb it and return to civilisation in one day, however the weather is notoriously volatile and you must always notify the DOC.

North Egmont Visitors Centre, 06 758 3222.

STRATFORDStratford Information CentreBroadway Stratford (State Hwy 3), 06 765 6708, [email protected]

New Plymouth Info CentrePuke Ariki Complex, St Aubyn Street, 06 759 6080,[email protected]

Department of ConservationPembroke Rd, 06 765 5144

SOUTH TARANAKIInformation South Taranaki55 High St, Hawera, 0800 111 323, [email protected]

Wheatly Downs Farmstay Backpackers (BBH) 484 Ararata Rd, Hawera, 06 278 6523, [email protected]

WHANGANUIBraemar House (YHA)2 Plymouth St, 06 348 2301,yha.co.nz

Tamara Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 24 Somme Pde, 06 347 6300,tamaralodge.com

Whanganui National ParkThe major attraction is the Whanganui River, snaking through picturesque scenery. Explore with a kayak or riverboat tour.

Wanganui Information Centre101 Guyton St, 06 349 0508, [email protected]

Department of Conservation OfficeCnr Ingestre and St Hill Sts, 06 345 2402

Celine Waniart, BelgiumHI CELINE. SEEN MUCH OF NZ? We took the ferry between Wellington and Picton (South Island),

and we went up to Abel Tasman National park through Nelson.

GOT A FAVOURITE PLACE? Abel Tasman National park.You can do a lot of walk, and if you

want you can stay there and sleep in the park, which is beautiful.

There are no roads, it’s just you and nature. It’s amazing.

FAVOURITE NIGHT SPOT?

Staying on the shores of some lakes was very cool, and we met

often some backpacker like us.



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PALMERSTON NTHManawatu Visitor Centre101 Guyton St, 06 490-508, [email protected]

Department of Conservation Office 717 Tremaine Ave, 06 358 9004

Grandma’s Place (BBH) 146 Grey St, 06 358 6928, [email protected]

Peppertree Hostel (BBH) 121 Grey St, 06 355 4054.

WELLINGTONThe nation’s capital is to many people, New Zealand’s most interesting city. Te Papa, the multi-million dollar museum, has sealed its position as cultural capital too. Wellington has a small centre, is easily navigated on foot and as any Wellingtonian will tell you, it has more cafés per head than New York. The nightlife in “Welly” is pretty special too.

Wellington Visitor Info CentreCorner of Victoria & Wakefield Sts, 04 802 4860,wellingtonnz.com

DOC Information CentreLambton Quay,

04 472 7356

Ferry to the South IslandBoats to Picton on the South Island. Ferries can be booked up well in advance in holiday periods. 0800 802 802, interislandline.co.nz

Ferry Tickets Online186 Victoria St, 0800 500 660, errytickets.co.nz

WELLY STAYBase Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. 04 801 5666

stayatbase.com

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

Downtown Wellington Backpackers (BBH) 1 Bunny St. 04 473 [email protected]

Lodge in the City (VIP) 152 Taranaki St. 04 385 8560lodgeinthecity.co.nz

Maple Lodge (BBH) 52 Ellice St. 04 385 3771

Nomads Capital 118 Wakefield St. 0508 666 237,nomadscapital.com

Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 McDonald Cres. 04 384 3041,backpackerswellington.co.nz

Rowena’s Backpackers (VIP) 115 Brougham St.0800 80 1414

Wellywood Backpackers 58 Tory St.0508 00 58 58

Worldwide Backpackers (BBH)

291 The Terrace. 04 802 5590,worldwidenz.co.nz

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

WELLY DOCable carWalk down Lambton Quay and you will see a sign for the cable car which departs every 10 minutes past Kelburn Park to the Botanic Gardens, 04 472 2199

Cosmic Corner Funk Store The funkiest store in the universe. Check out the legal highs and chat to the staff, who will happily point you in the right direction for parties, events and scenic spots. 215 Cuba St, 04 801 6970, [email protected]

Karori Wildlife Sanctuary Many of New Zealand’s rarest birds, reptiles and insects are living freely in this award-winning conservation safe haven. Look for kiwis on a guided tour by torchlight. Times vary and bookings are essential.

Diego Figueroa, ChileHEY SARAH. BEEN MANY PLACES IN NZ? Auckland, Cape Reinga, Taupo, Hot Water Beach, Coromandel

peninsula, Matapouri.

GOT A FAVE DAY SPOT? Mainly the north of NZ,. If you ask me about beaches, Matapouri

was awesome. My friends and I had the whole beach to ourselves,

it was incredible.

AND A FAVOURITE NIGHT SPOT?

Maybe the Wildfi re in Auckland. It’s a place with lots of South

Americans, so it was good to see people from home.


BOOK NOW!

A DAY ON THE GREEN Villa Maria Estate, Auckland. Dec 15. From $99A killer 80s line-up including The Church, cult American rockers Devo and Scottish superstars Simple Minds.

Montgomerie Rd, Mangere adayonthegreen.co.nz


BAY OF ISLANDSGreat for catching some rays in the winter, the Bay of Islands is even better once summer for real kicks in. Northland’s mbest. With quiet coves, soft sandy beaches, sparkling waters and an interesting history, the Bay of Islands is a must-seeand uninhabited islands bathed in sunshine year-round. It’s the perfect place to do a skydive, an overnight cruise, scubawhich cruise the islands for pleasure, fishing and dolphin swimming.

MUST-VISIT

Waiapu Rd, Karori. 04 920 9213, sanctuary.org.nz

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

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

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

Te Papa – The National MuseumExperience the earthquake simulation room, find out what the early settlers went through and visit Te Marae, Te Papa’s living modern marae. Free entry, Cable St, 04 381 7000, tepapa.govt.nz

Wellington ZooLocated in Newtown and home to a wide variety of weird and wonderful animal and bird life, 04 381 6750

Harbour cruises

DON’T MISS!

SIX60 SUMMER TOURMatakana Country Park. Jan 5. $75The ultimate house party coming to a place near you. Featuring a number of hard rocking local acts this is one not to miss.

Omaha Flats, Auckland six60.co.za

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

Wellington Rover ToursSmall group day tours exploring Wellington, its stunning rugged coastline and the Lord of the Rings locations. 0800 426 211, wellingtonrover.co.nz

Beaches Wellington’s waterfront has cafés, restaurants and parks. Oriental Bay is good for a dip, but the water is cold and not always clean. It’s also good for a walk along the foreshore. If you are desperate for a swim, Scorching Bay is good or head up the coast towards Otaki where the best beaches in the region are found.

PLIMMERTONMoana Lodge (BBH)49 Moana Rd, 04 233 2010, moanalodge.co.nz

KAPITI COASTTranz Rail The best way to explore the Kapiti Coast is by train and most places along the

way can be reached within an hour or so, 04 498 3000

Stillwater Lodge (BBH)34 Mana Esplanade, Mana, 04 233 6628

PAEKAKARIKIPaekakariki Backpackers (BBH)11 Wellington Rd, 04 902 5967, wellingtonbeachbackpackers.co.nz

PARAPARAUMUThe beach here is glorious and the scene of most of the action in town.

Barnacles Seaside Inn (BBH, YHA) 3 Marine Parade, Paraparaumu, 0800 555 856, yha.co.nz

KAPITI ISA sanctuary for rare native birds. There’s a good chance of seeing elusive kiwis and blue penguins.

Kapiti Island Nature ToursTours and accommodation, 06 362 6606, kapitiislandnaturetours.co.nz

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Northland’s most popular tourist resort attracts visitors from all over the world – and rightly so. It’s NZ at its s a must-see. Situated 257km north of Auckland, this irregular and spectacular coastline has 144 remote cruise, scuba dive, kayak or take a fishing trip. Paihia is the main take-off point for the many boat tours

SURFING AUCKLANDIt may be called the city of sails but Auckland also has some epic waves. Head to Te Henga (Bethells Beach) on the west coast. Auckland’s beaches range from those with white sands and palm trees to the black sands of the west coast with towering cliffs and rainforests.

MUST DO

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM64

BOOK NOW!SOUTHISLAND follow us on @tnt_downunder

ABEL TASMANThe Abel Tasman National Park has great tramping with 56,000 acres to explore. The Coastal Track is one of the most popular walks in New Zealand, especially in summer when you can cool down at the stunning beaches. Nelson, Motueka and Marahau are all good bases for visiting the park. Sea kayaking is excellent here too.

ABEL DOWilsons Abel Tasman Sea kayaking, water taxis and lodge accommodation. 0800 223 582, abeltasman.co.nz

Abel Tasman Kayaks Ltd0800 732 529abeltasmankayaks.co.nz

NELSONNelson is seen as the “sunshine capital” of NZ. Home to a string of attractive beaches, Nelson is only a short drive away from the famous Abel Tasman National Park. The town boasts great cafés and a strong artistic subculture. Nelson’s great climate is conducive to fruit growing and travellers can find plenty of work in the area.

Nelson Visitor Centre Cnr Trafalgar & Halifax St, 03 548 2304, nelsonnz.com

Airport Shuttle 03 547 5782

Nelson City Taxis 03 548 8225

NELSON STAYAbode of the Buddha 181 Nile St East. 03 546 6890,[email protected]

Accents on the Park (BBH/VIP) 335 Trafalgar Square. 03 548 4335,accentsonthepark.com

Almond House (BBH) 63 Grove St. 03 545 6455,almondbackpackers.co.nz

Alpine Lodge St Arnaud. 03 521 1869,alpinelodge.co.nz

Beach Hostel (BBH) 25 Muritai St. 03 548 6817,nelsonbeachhostel.co.nz

The Bug (BBH) 226 Vanguard St. 03 539 4227,thebug.co.nz

The Customhouse (BBH) 252 Haven Rd. 03 545 8365,customhousenelson.co.nz

Footprints by the Sea (BBH) 31 Beach Rd, Tahuna Beach. 03 546 5441,[email protected]

The Green Monkey (BBH) 129 Milton St. 03 545 7421,thegreenmonkey.co.nz

Honey Suckle House (BBH) 125 Tasman St.

03 548 7576

Hu Ha Bikerpackers (BBH) State Highway 6, Glenhope. 03 548 2707,[email protected]

The Palace Backpackers (BBH) 114 Rutherford St. 03 548 4691,thepalace.co.nz

Paradiso (BBH) 42 Weka St. 0800 269 667, backpackernelson.co.nz

Rylands’ Retreat 163 Trafalgar St. 03 548 4691,thepalace.co.nz

The Palace Backpackers (BBH) 114 Rutherford St. 03 548 9001,[email protected]

Shortbread Cottage (BBH) 33 Trafalgar St. 03 546 6681

Tasman Bay Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 10 Weka St. 03 548 7950,tasmanbaybackpackers.co.nz

Trampers Rest (BBH) 31 Alton St.03 545 7477

Welcome House (BBH) 108 Parkers Road, Tahunahui. 03 548 5462

YHA Nelson Central 59 Rutherford St. 03 545 9988,yha.co.nz

NELSON DOAbel Tasman Kayaks0800 527 8022, kayaktours.co.nz

Happy Valley 4x4 Motorbike AdventuresTours around spectacular private farm on chunky four-wheel motorbikes. 03 545 0304, happyvalleyadventures.co.nz

Kaiteriteri kayaksFree transport from Nelson.03 527 8383, seakayak.co.nz

Skydive Abel TasmanTandem jumps from 13,000ft over Abel Tasman.0800 422 899, skydive.co.nz

NELSON LAKESLocated 118km south-west of Nelson, the park comprises Lake Rotoroa and Lake Rotoiti, and is surrounded by forests and mountains. Apart from tramping and skiing at Rainbow Valley and Mt Robert in winter, the lakes offer fishing and other water activities.

MOTUEKAThis is an alternative hang-out for creative types and those seeking to veer off life’s fast lane. Most people use Motueka as a base to launch an assault on Abel Tasman National Park, but if you take the time to look around your efforts will be well rewarded. Try Marahau Beach and Cobb Valley.

Motueka i-SITE Visitors Centre20 Wallace St,

03 528 6543,motuekaisite.co.nz

MOTUEKA STAYBakers Lodge (YHA) 4 Poole St. 03 528 0102, yha.co.nz

The Barn (BBH) Harvey Road, Marahau. 03 527 8043

Eden’s Edge Backpackers (BBH) 137 Lodder Lane, Riwaka. 03 528 4242,[email protected]

Lagoon Lodge (BBH) 500 High St. 03 528 8652,happyapplebackpackers.co.nz

Hat Trick Lodge (BBH) 25 Wallace St. 03 528 5353,hattricklodge.co.nz

The Laughing Kiwi (BBH) 310 High St. 03 528 9229,laughingkiwi.co.nz

Old Macdonald’s Farm Holiday Park 03 527 8288,[email protected]

The White Elephant (BBH) 55 Whakarewa St. 03 528 6208,whiteelephant.co.nz

Vineyard Tourist Units & Cabins 328 High St.03 528 8550

MOTUEKA DOWilsons Abel Tasman 265 High St, 0800 223 582,abeltasman.co.nz

Southern Exposure Abel TasmanSea Kayaking & Water Taxis0800 695 292, southern-exposure.co.nz

TAKAKAKnown as the “Heart of the Parks”, the much underrated Golden Bay region is a place of considerable natural beauty. If you venture slightly out of Takaka you will see the Te Waikoropupu (Pupu Springs), one of the largest freshwater springs in the world.

Information Centre Willow St, 03 525 9136

Dept of Conservation Office 62 Commercial St, 03 525 8026

TAKAKA STAYAnnie’s Nirvana Lodge (BBH, YHA) 25 Motupipi St. 03 525 8766, [email protected]

Aquapackers (BBH) Anchorage Bay, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 0800 430 744, aquapackers.co.nz

Golden Bay Barefoot Backpackers (BBH) 114 Commercial St. 03 525 7005, bare-foot.co.nz

Kiwiana (BBH) 73 Motuipipi St. 03 525 7676

Kanuka Ridge (BBH) 21 Moss Rd, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 03 527 8435, abeltasmanbackpackers.co.nz

The Nook (BBH) Abel Tasman Dr. 03 525 8501,[email protected]

River Inn (BBH) Golden Bay.03 525 9425

Shambhala (BBH) Hwy 60, Onekaka. 03 525 8463,shambhala.co.nz

KAHURANGI NPThe second-largest national park in NZ, Kahurangi includes the Heaphy Track. There are more than 100 bird species and an impressive cave system to be seen here. For info see the Nelson DOC office.

COLLINGWOODNorth-west of Takaka is the tiny community of Collingwood (the people aren’t particularly small, their numbers are), a good base for expeditions to Farewell Spit.

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

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

FAREWELL SPITArching east from the top of Golden Bay, this is a sand bar of epic proportions, home to some of the largest sanddunes in the world and some amazing birdlife.

Golden Bay Visitor Centre03 525 9136

MARLBOROUGHThe Marlborough Sounds are a beautiful labyrinth of islands and bays, serving as an impressive gateway to the South Island. Hire a kayak to paddle the coves in style, or go swimming with the dolphins.

Anakiwa Backpackers (BBH) 410 Anakiwa Rd. 03 574 1388,anakiwabackpackers.co.nz

Hopewell (BBH) Kenepuru Rd. 03573 4341, hopewell.co.nz

The Partage Resort Hotel Kenepuru Sound. 03 573 4309,portage.co.nz

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

Airport shuttle bus 03 573 7125

PICTON STAYAtlantis Backpackers (BBH) London Quay. 03 573 7390,

atlantishostel.co.nz

Bayview Backpackers (BBH) 318 Waikawa Rd. 03 573 7668,truenz.co.nz/bayviewbackpackers

The Jugglers Rest (BBH) 8 Canterbury St. 03 573 5570,[email protected]

Picton Lodge (VIP) 9 Auckland St. 03 573 7788,pictonlodge.co.nz

Sequoia Lodge (BBH, VIP) 3 Nelson Sq. 03 573 8399,sequoialodge.co.nz

Picton Lodge (VIP) 9 Auckland St. 03 573 7788,pictonlodge.co.nz

The Villa (BBH) 34 Auckland St. 03 573 6598,thevilla.co.nz

Tombstone Backpackers (BBH) 16 Gravesend Place. 03 573 7116,[email protected]

Wedgwood House (YHA) 10 Dublin St. 03 573 7797,yha.co.nz

PICTON DODolphin Watch EncountersPicton Foreshore, 03 573 8040, naturetours.co.nz

Marlborough Sounds Adventure Company 03 573 6078

Southern Wilderness NZGuided walk, wine trek and sea kayaking specialists. 0800 666 044,southernwilderness.com

Waka Whenua ToursWine tours. Sightseeing/historical/ cultural tours also available.03 573 7877

QUEEN CHARLOTTEOn the road-free outer Queen Charlotte Sound, everyone and everything travels by boat. The Queen Charlotte Track covers 71km and passes through magnificent forest, at times allowing spectacular views over the Marlborough Sounds. The whole track can be walked in four days, though you can also ride it by mountain bike.

Endeavour Express Water TaxiDay-trips, round-trips and luggage transfers. 03 573 5456

HAVELOCKNestled at the head of Pelorus Sound, Havelock is the best place from which to explore the Marlborough Sounds. For trampers and mountain bikers there’s the beautiful Nydia Track.

DOC OfficeMahakipawa Rd, 03 574 2019

Explore Pelorus Sea Kayaks03 576 5251

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HAVELOCK STAYBluemoon Lodge (BBH) 48 Main Rd. 03 574 2212,bluemoonhavelock.co.nz

Nikau Cottages 48 Main Rd.03 443 9010

Rutherford YHA Hostel 46 Main Road. 03 574 2104,yha.co.nz

PELORUS SOUNDThe largest waterway within the Marlborough Sounds, it can be accessed from Havelock, Linkwater or Rai Valley.

BLENHEIMThe largest town in Marlborough, and considered (ahem, also) the“sunshine capital of New Zealand”. Whitewater rafting on the Buller and Gowan Rivers is great fun.

Blenheim Information CentreThe Forum Building, Queen St, 03 578 9904

Honi-B-Backpackers (BBH) 18 Parker St. 03 577 8441,honi-b.com

Koanui Backpackers (BBH) 33 Main St. 03 578 7487,koanui.co.nz

Leeways Backpackers (BBH) 33 Lansdowne St. 03 579 2213,leewaysbackpackers.co.nr

Peacehaven Backpackers (BBH) 29 Budge St. 03 577 9750,[email protected]

Stoney Acre 9 Marldene Avenue, Seddon. 03 578 6303,[email protected]

KAIKOURAKaikoura is famous for its large sperm whale population and picturesque mountain range. You can also snorkel with dolphins or swim with the inquisitive NZ fur seals (Sept-May).

Kaikoura Visitor Info Centre, West End, 03 319 5641

KAIKOURA STAYAdelphi Lodge (BBH, VIP) 26 West End. 0800 423 574,adelphilodge.co.nz

Albatross Backpacker Inn (BBH) 1 Torquay St. 03 319 6090,albatross-kaikoura.co.nz

Bad Jelly Backpackers (BBH) 11 Churchill St. 03 319 5538,[email protected]

Dolphin Lodge (BBH) 15 Deal St. 03 319 5842,[email protected]

Dusky Lodge (BBH) 67 Beach Rd. 03 319 5959

The Lazy Shag (BBH) 37 Beach St.03 319 6662

Lyell Creek Lodge (BBH) 193 Beach Rd. 03 319 6277,[email protected]

Sunrise Lodge (BBH) 74 Beach Rd. 03 319 7444

Top Spot Backpackers (BBH) 22 Deal St.03 319 5540

YHA Kaikoura, Maui 270 Esplanade. 03 319 5931,yha.co.nz

KAIKOURA DOKaikoura is famous for its large sperm whale population and picturesque mountain r

Albatross EncounterEnjoy the sight of the magnificent albatross so close to the boat you can almost touch them. 96 Esplanade, 0800 733 365albatrossencounter.co.nz

Dolphin Encounter Swim with the acrobatic dusky dolphins or if you prefer, join the tour to view them from the

boat. 96 Esplanade, 0800 733 365, dolphin.co.nz

Fyffe House 62 Avoca St, Kaikoura’s oldest building, 03 319 5835.

Kaikoura Kayaks Paddle with the playful fur seals, dusky dolphins and marine life of Kaikoura. Seal kayaking, kayak school, hire, retail and kayak fishing. 19 Killarney St, 0800 452 456, kaikourakayaks.co.nz

Seal Swim Kaikoura Swim with wild NZ Fur Seals. 58 West End, 0800 732 579, sealswimkaikoura.co.nz

CHRISTCHURCHChristchurch is the South Island’s major city and a lively, pretty base with a distinctly English feel to it. Throw in Mount Cook and Mount Hutt with their skifields (early June to late October) and the Canterbury area is well worth spending some time discovering.

Christchurch & Canterbury i-Site Visitor Centre Cnr Deans Av & Kilmarnock St0800 423 783christchurchnz.com

Department of Conservation 133 Victoria St, 03 379 9758

C’CHURCH STAYAround the World Backpackers314 Barbadoes Street. 03 365 4363aroundtheworld.co.nz

At The Right Place 85 Bealey Street. 03 366 1633 atrp.co.nz Avon City Backpackers Worcester Street. 03 3896876, avoncitybackpackers.com

Canterbury House (BBH) 257 Bealey Ave. 03 377 8108,[email protected]

Chester Street Backpackers (BBH) 148 Chester St East.03 377 1897, chesterst.co.nz

Foley Towers (BBH) 208 Kilmore St. 03 366 9720,backpack.co.nz/foley

Haka Lodge 518 Linwood Ave. 03 980 4252hakalodge.com

Jailhouse Accommodation (BBH) 338 Lincoln Rd. 0800 524 546jail.co.nz

Kiwi Basecamp (BBH) 69 Bealey Ave. 03 366 [email protected]

Call today 0800 436 574or book online at www.blackcat.co.nz

Swim with the

dolphinsMain wharf Akaroa

Just a 90min scenic drive from

Christchurch

ADULTS

$145 kids $115

Tomoo Nakagawa, JapanSEEN MUCH OF NZ? South Island I spent a lot of time in

Queenstown. Also went to Franz Josef which was kind of cool.

YOUR FAVOURITE SPOT? Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater. It made me

feel relaxed and refresh, also underwater tunnel is breathtaking.

ANY RUN-INS WITH WILDLIFE? Defi nitely Mount Eden!!! Very quiet

but not dangerous. You can see Auckland City so close. It’s good for

dates as well. Christchurch was really good to spend some time

there as well. It’s still such a vibrant place.


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Waipara Sleepers (BBH) 12 Glenmark Dr, Waipara. 03 314 6003,lewaiparasleepers.co.nz

CASTLE HILLGateway to the Craigieburn Range.

Chill Adventures Multi-mountain snow passes. chillout.co.nz

Springfield Hotel State Highway 73, Springfield. 03 318 4812,springfieldhotel.co.nz

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

National Park Visitor Centre03 318 9211

Rata Lodge Backpackers (BBH) State Highway 73, OtiraArthur’s Pass National Park.03 738 2822

Smylies Accommodation (YHA) 03 318 9258, yha.co.nz

METHVENMethven is a small, friendly town popular with fishermen, hunters and backpackers. The area provides a variety of adrenalin thrills, including hot air ballooning, bungy jumping and skydiving. Mt Hutt also has the longest ski run in Australasia.

Methven i-SITE Visitor Centre 121 Main St, Methven, 03 302 8955,

NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt.nzski.com

METHVEN STAYBig Tree Lodge (BBH) 25 South Belt. 03 302 9575,[email protected]

Backpacker Heaven (YHA) Cnr Bank & McMillan Sts. 03 302 8999,yha.co.nz

Kowhai House (BBH) 17 McMillan St. 03 302 8887,kowhaihouse.co.nz

Mt Hutt Bunkhouse (BBH) 8 Lampard St. 03 302 8894,mthuttbunks.co.nz

Pinedale Backpacker Lodge (BBH) 11 Alford St. 0800 638 483,pinedalelodge.co.nz

Redwood Lodge (BBH) 3 Wayne Place. 03 302 8964,[email protected]

Skiwi House (BBH) 30 Chapman St. 03 302 8772,skiwihouse.com

Snow Denn Lodge (YHA, VIP) Cnr Bank & McMillan Sts. 03 302 8999, yha.co.nz

TIMARU

Ave. 03 366 [email protected]

Kiwi House 373 Gloucester St. 03 381 6645 kiwihouse.co.nz

Marine Backpackers 26 Nayland St. 03 326 6609themarine.co.nz

Point Break Backpackers (BBH) 99 Seaview Road. 03 388 2050pointbreakbackpackers.co.nz

The Old Countryhouse (BBH) 437 Gloucester St. 03 381 5504oldcountryhousenz.com

Tranquil Lodge (BBH) 440 Manchester St. 03 366 6500tranquil-lodge.co.nz

Rucksacker Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 70 Bealey Ave. 03 377 7931rucksacker.com

Vagabond Backpackers (BBH) 232 Worcester St. 03 379 [email protected]

C’CHURCH DOBlack Cat CruisesWildlife Cruises on Lyttelton Harbour. Free shuttle bus from Christchurch, 03 328 9078.blackcat.co.nz

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

Up Up and AwayHot air ballooning, 03 381 4600, ballooning.co.nz

SUMNERThis surf beach is also a great place to chill for a while. If you’re feeling adventurous, mountain biking, paragliding and surfing are just some of the activities you can try.

The Marine Backpackers (BBH) 26 Nayland St. 03 326 6609,themarine.co.nz

BANKS PENINSULABanks Peninsula is a beautiful region with a stunning coastline chock full of mountains and wildlife. The two harbours of Akaroa and Lyttelton are craters of a once majestic volcano.

LYTTELTONLyttelton is a quaint township with a beautiful scenic harbour and historic buildings. The harbour is a great place for boating, while the surrounding hills are good for mountain biking and walking.

Lyttelton Information Centre20 Oxford St, 03 328 9093

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

Akaroa Information Centre80 Rue Lavaud, 03 304 8600

Akaroa ShuttleChristchurch to Akaroa buses. 0800 500 929

Akaroa French ConnectionTours and shuttle bus,0800 800 575

AKAROA STAYBon Accord Backpackers (BBH) 57 Rue Lavaud. 03 304 7782,bon-accord.co.nz

Chez La Mer (BBH) 50 Rue Lavaud. 03 304 7024,chezlamer.co.nz

Double Dutch (BBH) 32 Chorlton Road, Okains Bay. 03 304 7229,doubledutch.co.nz

Halfmoon Cottage (BBH) SH25 Barrys Bay. 03 304 5050,halfmoon.co.nz

Onuku Farm Hostel (BBH) 03 3047066, onukufarm.com

AKAROA DOAkaroa Museum 71 Rue Lavard, 03 304 1013

Black Cat CruisesOffer a number of cruises in Akaroa. See Akaroa Harbour or swim with dolphins. 03 328 9078.

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

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

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

Department of Conservation Cnr Amuri Rd & Jacks Pass Rd, 03 315 7128

The Hanmer ConnectionChristchurch to Hanmer Springs buses.0800 242 663

HANMER STAYHanmer Backpackers (BBH) 41 Conical Hill Rd. 03 315 7196,[email protected]

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

Le Gite Backpackers (BBH) 3 Devon St. 03 315 5111,legite.co.nz

Despite being industrial, it’s picturesque with views of the Southern Alps, plains and sea.

1873 Wanderer Backpackers (BBH) 24 Evans St. 03 688 8795

Old Bank Backpackers 232 Stafford St. 03 684 4392

Timaru Backpackers 44 Evans St. 03 684 5067

Toru Toru Wha Backpackers 334 Stafford St.03 684 4729

GERALDINEAs well as a wonderful old movie theatre and whitewater rafting on the Rangitata River, visiting the mighty Emily Falls is recommended.

Geraldine Information CentreTalbot Street, 03 693 1006

4x4 New ZealandWilderness adventures and The Lord of the Rings tours, 03 693 7254,4x4newzealand.co.nz

Rangitata Rafts Peel Forest, 0800 251 251

Rawhiti Backpackers (BBH) 27 Hewlings St. 03 693 8252rawhitibackpackers.co.nz/

FAIRLIEMt Dobson Ski Area, 03 685 8039, dobson.co.nz

Tallyho Lodge & Backpackers 7 School Rd. 03 685 8723

LAKE TEKAPOA stunning turquoise-coloured lake, 100km west of Timaru. The tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, built in 1935, frames the view beautifully. Activities include walking, watersports, fishing and skiing.

Tailor-Made-Tekapo Backpackers (BBH) 9-11 Aorangi Cres. 03 680 6700, [email protected]

Lake Tekapo Backpackers (VIP) SH8. 03 680 6808,[email protected]

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

MT COOKMount Cook National Park is part of a World Heritage area that forms one of the most amazing sights anywhere in New Zealand. The showcase is the majestic Mt Cook (Aoraki). NZ’s greatest climber Sir Edmund Hillary used it as a practice ground before conquering Mt Everest, but Mt Cook has claimed the lives of more than 160 people. Discuss climbing plans with park rangers before you go.

Department of Conservation Visitor Information CentreAoraki/Mt Cook Alpine Village, 03 435 1819

The Cook Connection

Day trips to Mt Cook from Tekapo. Ph: 021 583 211,cookconnect.co.nz

MT COOK STAYMountain Chalets (VIP) Wairepo Rd, Twizel. 03 435 0785,[email protected]

YHA Mt Cook Cnr Bowen and Kitchener Drives. 03 435 1820,yha.co.nz

WEST COASTRugged is the word often used when it comes to the South Island’s west coast. It’s quite an amazing place, sparsely inhabited, untouched in many areas and studded with geographical wonders. Don’t miss the two mighty glaciers, Fox and Franz Josef, or the Pancake Rocks.

KARAMEAKaramea contains pleasant walks, interesting caves and the Oparara River, a great trout fishing spot. Walk along the wonderful Fernian Track or, try the more challenging hike up Mt Stormy.

Karamea Information CentreBridge St, 03 782 6652

Rongo (BBH) 03 782 6667,[email protected]

MURCHISONWith crazy terrain skewed by mining and earthquakes, one of the major attractions of Murchison is its proximity to Buller Gorge, a wonderfully scenic cluster of cliffs and trees. Activities include rafting on the Gowan River and mountain biking on the Matakitaki.

Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park03 523 9809,bullergorge.co.nz

The Lazy Cow Accommodation (BBH) 37 Waller St. 03 523 9451,[email protected]

REEFTONThe centrepiece of the town is Victoria Forest Park, the largest forest park in New Zealand.

Reefton Visitor Centre 67 Broadway, 03 732 8391

Reefton Backpackers 64 Shiel St. 03 732 8133,[email protected]

The Old Nurses Home (BBH) 204 Shiel St.03 789 8881

WESTPORTVisitor Information Westport1 Brougham St, 03 789 6658

Basils Hostel (VIP) 54 Russell St.

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03 715 5760

Berlins Café & Lodgings (BBH) 1205 Lower Buller Gorge, Inangahua Junction. 03 789 0295,[email protected]

Pounamu Backpackers (BBH) Section 406, S H’way 6m Charleston. 03 789 8011,[email protected]

Robyn’s Nest Hostel 42 Romilly St. 03 789 6565,[email protected]

Swaines (BBH) Inangahua Landing Bridge, Highway 69, Inangahua Jnctn. 03 789 0226,[email protected]

TripInn (BBH) 72 Queen St.03 789 7367

The Old Slaughterhouse (BBH) Highway 67, Hector.03 782 8333

PAPAROA NPThis park is home to the amazing Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki. These are a series of eroded limestone rocks moulded into what appears to be a giant stack of pancakes.

Visitor Information Punakaiki03 731 1895

Barrytown Knife Making 2662 Coast Road, Barrytown,

03 731 1053,barrytownknifemaking.com

PAPAROA STAYPunakaiki Beach Hostel (BBH) 4 Webb St. 03 731 1852,punakaikibeachhostel.co.nz

Te Nikau Retreat (BBH, YHA) 03 731 1111,tenikauretreat.co.nz

All Nations Hotel & Backpackers (VIP) SH6, Barrytown. 03 731 1812,[email protected]

GREYMOUTHThe west coast’s largest town is dominated by the Grey River. Highlights include the Monteith’s brewery tour, as well as aquatic activities like rafting and canyoning.

Visitor Information Herbert and Mackay Sts, 03 768 5101

TranzAlpineScenic railway from Christchurch to Greymouth, travelling through Canterbury Plains and the Alps. Departs 9am every morning.0800 872 467tranzscenic.co.nz

GREYMOUTH STAY

The west coast’s largest town is dominated by the

Duke Backpackers (BBH) 27 Guiness St.03 768 9470

Global Village (BBH) 42-54 Cowper St, Ph: (03) 768 7272, [email protected]

The Hairy Lemon 128-130 Mawhera Quay, 03 768 4022,

Neptunes International Backpackers (BBH) 43 Gresson St, 0800 003 768, [email protected]

Noahs Ark Backpackers (BBH) 16 Chapel St, 03 768 4868,[email protected]

The Ranch 37 MacDougall Ave, 03 762 7801, [email protected]

YHA Greymouth Kainga-ra15 Alexander St, Ph: (03) 768 4951, www.yha.co.nz

HOKITIKAGreenstone, a form of practically indestructible rock that was used by the Maori to make weapons and ornaments, is the main attraction

here. There’s also the Westland Water World for all things wet, the Glowworm Dell and some excellent whitewater rafting.

Hokitika Visitor Info Centre Carnegie Building, corner of Hamilton & Tancred Street, 03 755 6166

HOKITIKA STAYBeach House BPs 137 Revell St, 03 755 6859

Birdsong (BBH) 124 SH6, 03 755 7179

Drifting Sands Backpackers (BBH)197 Revell St, 03 755 7612,www.madkiwi.co.nz

Mountain Jade Backpackers (BBH) 41 Weld St, 03 755 8007, [email protected]

Riverview Cabins (BBH)154 Kaniere Rd, 03 755 7440

Stumpers Accommodation2 Weld St, 03 755 6154,www.stumpers.co.nz

HOKITIKA DOAlpine Rafts Freephone: 0800 223 456.

The Just Jade Experience Design and create your own treasures with NZ jade/greenstone. Allow at least 6-10 hours. 197 Revell St, 03 755 7612, madkiwi.co.nz

WHATAROAAbout 35km south of Harihari and one of the South Island’s prime fishing spots. Also the magnificent white heron (Kotuku) colony which thrillseekers can reach by jet boat.

OKARITOThe tiny beach settlement of Okarito, near Franz Josef Glacier, sits at the mouth of New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland – the Okarito Lagoon. Hike up to the Okarito Trig for excellent views.

Okarito Nature Tours03 753 4014, [email protected]

Royal Hostel (BBH)The Strand, 03 753 4080, okaritohostel.com

YHA Okarito Palmerston St, Whataroa, 03 753 4347, yha.co.nz

FRANZ JOSEFThe glacier is about 12km long and offers a wide variety of challenging


Bookings Essential. Call our Reservations Freephone:

080026 65 26C O O K C O

Web address: www.mtcookbus.co.nz

SHUTTLE BUS TRANSPORT1st October 2012 - 31st May 2013

TEKAPO MT COOKTWIZEL MT COOK

Daily

2 x Day

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glacierkayaks.com

Skydive NZ: Fox Glacier0800 751 0080,skydivingnz.co.nz

HAAST PASSRunning through Mt Aspiring National Park, this stretch of road is among the most scenic that you’ll come across in New Zealand, showing off pristine lakes, magnificent forests and waterfalls.

DOC CentreCnr SH 6 and Jackson Bay Rd, 03 750 0809

Haast Highway Accommodation Marks Rd, 03 750 0703

Wilderness Backpackers (BBH)Marks Rd, 03 750 029, [email protected]

SOUTHLANDThe top of your chest will quickly get sore as the South Island’s jaw-dropping scenery becomes more prevalent. From the adrenalin thrills of Queenstown to the achingly

activities. To get the ultimate perspective on the magnitude of Franz Josef, head for Sentinel Rock, which gives a sweeping view over both the Waiho Valley and the mighty glacier.

DOC Visitors Information CentreWestland National Park, Hwy 6, 03 752 0796

FRANZ STAYBlack Sheep (VIP)SH 6, 03 752 0007

Chateau Franz (VIP, BBH)8-10 Cron St, 0800 728 372, www.chateaufranz.co.nz

Glow Worm Cottages (BBH)27 Cron St, 0800 151 027,www.budgetaccommodation.co.nz

Montrose (BBH)9 Cron St, 03 752 0188, [email protected]

Rainforest Retreat (VIP)Cron St, 0800 873 346

YHA Franz Josef 2-4 Cron St, 03 752 0754, www.yha.co.nz

FRANZ DOAlpine Adventure CentreFootage on a helimax screen, 03 752 0793

Franz Josef Glacier GuidesGuided walks and heli-hikes on the Franz Josef Glacier0800 484 337, franzjosefglacier.com

Glacier Country KayaksExplore the glaciers from the water03 752 0230,glacierkayaks.com

Skydive FranzAt 18,000ft, they currently offer NZ’s highest skydive.0800 458 677, skydivefranz.co.nz

The Guiding Company0800 800 102, nzguides.com

FOX GLACIERSimiliar activities to Franz Josef only with fewer crowds. The best walk is up to the Welcome Flat Hot Springs. For stunning views, head up the wonderfully scenic Chalet Lookout Walk. Look out for the beautiful kea (grey-green mountain parrot). Nearby is Lake Matheson, with its stunning twin mountain reflection.

DOC Visitor CentreState Hwy 6, 03 751 0807

FOX STAYFox Glacier Inn03 751 0088

Ivory Towers (BBH)03 751 0838, ivorytowerslodge.co.nz

FOX DOFox Glacier GuidingGuided walks and heli-hikes on the FoxGlacier. 0800 111 600, foxguides.co.nz

Glacier Country Kayaks20 Cron St, 0800 423 262,

beautiful Milford Sound, there’s never a dull moment down south. Stop frequently, take deep breaths and enjoy one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Mt Aspiring National Park Visitor Info Centre Cnr Ballantyne Rd & Ardmore St,03 443 8372

LAKE WANAKAThe cosy town and its crystal-clear waters which reflect the dramatic landscape is the gateway to Mount Aspiring Park. The World Heritage area has magnificent tramping and mountaineering. Lake Wanaka boasts almost as many adrenalin-tastic activities as neighbouring Queenstown, such as mountain biking, jet-boating, canyoning, and whitewater sledging. It’s a favourite with snowboarders in winter, and has lively nightlife year-round. Boasting the most sceneray from those films with wizards and hairy-footed hobbits, there are great Lord of the Rings tours, too.

Lake Wanaka Visitors CentreThe Log Cabin, Lakefront, 100 Ardmore Street. 03 4431 1233

WANAKA STAYAlbert Town Lodge (BBH)Cnr SH6 and Kingston St, Albert Town, 03 443 9487, alberttownlodge.co.nz

Holly’s Backpackers (BBH)71 Upton St, 03 443 8187,[email protected]

Mountain View Backpackers (BBH) 7 Russell St, 0800 112 201, [email protected]

The Purple Cow (BBH)94 Brownston St, 03 443 1880, purplecow.co.nz

Wanaka Bakpaka (BBH)117 Lakeside Rd, 03 443 7837, [email protected]

YHA Wanaka 181 Upton St, 03 443 7405, yha.co.nz

WANAKA DO

Adventure ConsultantsMountaineering instruction courses and guided ascents, 03 443 8711, adventure.co.nz

Aspiring GuidesGuided mountain climbing and ice climbing instruction courses,03 443 9422, aspiringguides.com

Classic FlightsVintage Tiger Moth flights over Lake Wanaka. 03 443 4043, classicflights.co.nz

Deep CanyonCanyoning in the Matukituki Valley. Adventure Wanaka, 23 Dunmore St, Wanaka. 03 443 7922, deepcanyon.co.nz

Frogz Have More FunSledge down either the Clutha, Hawea or Kawarau Rivers. 0800 437 649, frogz.co.nz

The Silver DemonAerobatic flights. 03 443 4043, silverdemon.co.nz

Skydive Lake WanakaFreefall from 12,000 or 15,000ft with views of NZ’s highest mountains. 0800 786 877, skydivenz.com

Treble Cone Ski Field03 443 7443,treblecone.co.nz

Wanaka Rock ClimbingOne, three and five-day rock climbing courses for everyone. 03 443 6411, wanakarock.co.nz

Wanaka FlightseeingMilford Sound flight and cruise from Wanaka, 03 443-8787,flightseeing.co.nz

Wanaka SightseeingIncludes Lord of the Rings tours, 2 Anderson Rd, 03 338 0982, wanakasightseeing.co.nz

LAKE HAWEAThirty-five kilometres long and more than 400m deep, Lake Hawea is a great source of salmon and rainbow trout.

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QUEENSTOWNParadise for the energetic traveller, Queenstown is one of the world’s most action-packed towns. The town, which is surprisingly small compared to its big reputation, is located on Lake Wakatipu and rises up to the peaks of the aptly-named Remarkables (which you can ski in winter). In winter, the town is a centre for nearby skifields and in summer adventure activities and tramping take over. There’s also a hectic social scene which extends well into the wee small hours.

Info & Track Walking Centre 37 Shotover St, 03 442 9708

Peterpans Adventure Travel 27 Shotover St Queenstown. peterpans.com.au

Queenstown Travel & Visitor Centre Corner of Shotover & Camp Sts, 03 442 4100

Q’TOWN STAYAlpine Lodge (BBH) 13 Gorge Rd. 03 442 7220, [email protected]

Aspen Lodge (BBH) 11 Gorge Rd. 03 442 9671, aspenlodge.co.nz

Base Discovery Lodge Queenstown 49 Shotover St. 03441 1185, stayatbase.com

Black Sheep Lodge (BBH/VIP) 13 Frankton Rd. 03 442 7289, blacksheepbackpackers.co.nz

Bungi Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 15 Sydney St. 0800 728 286,bungibackpackers.co.nz

Butterfli Lodge (BBH) 62 Thompson St. 03 442 6367,butterfli.co.nz

Cardrona Alpine Resort Between Queenstown and Wanaka. 03 443 7341, cardrona.com

Deco Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 52 Man St. 03 442 7384,decobackpackers.co.nz

Flaming Kiwi Backpackers (BBH) 39 Robins Rd. 03 442 5494,[email protected]

Hippo Lodge (BBH) 4 Anderson Hts. 03 442 5785,hippolodge.co.nz

Nomads Queenstown 5-11 Church St. 03 441 3922,nomadshostels.com

Pinewood Lodge (VIP) Queenstown’s best value accommodation. We offer an excellent variety of accommodation, everything from deluxe en-suite rooms with private bathroom amenities, inexpensive double and twin rooms, dorm beds and self-contained family cabins. 48 Hamilton Rd. 0800 746 396, 03 442 8273, pinewood.co.nz

Resort Lodge (BBH) 6 Henry St. 03 442 4970, resortlodge.co.nz

Scallywags Traveller’s Guesthouse (BBH) 27 Lomond Crescent.03 442 7083

Southern Laughter (BBH, VIP) 4 Isle St. 0800 728 448,southernlaughter.co.nz

The Last Resort (BBH)

6 Memorial St. 03 442 4320,[email protected]

Thomas’s Hotel & BPs (VIP) 50 Beach St. 03 442 7180

YHA Queenstown Central 48A Shotover Street. 03 442 7400, yha.co.nz

YHA Queenstown Lakefront 88-90 Lake Esplanade. 03 442 8413, yha.co.nz

Q’TOWN DOThere are hundreds of activities to keep you occupied in Queenstown. Bungy, jetboating and rafting are all experiences not to be missed, and in winter, skiing the Remarkables is a must. To really appreciate the beauty of the region, take a scenic flight, or even jump out the plane.

AJ Hackett Bungy QueenstownJump off one or all of New Zealand’s most well-known sites. Nevis Highwire Bungy, the highest in New Zealand – 134m above the Nevis River. The Kawarau Bridge, the world’s first bungy – 43m above the Kawarau River. The 47m Ledge, 400m above the town which you can jump day or night. Access is by Skyline Gondola.0800 286 4958bungy.co.nz

Awesome FoursomeBungy (Nevis – 134m), jetboat, helicopter, whitewater rafting, 03 442 7318

Dart River Safaris Jetboating wilderness tours,0800 327 8538, dartriver.co.nz

Fat Tyre AdventureMountain biking/heli biking, 0800 328 897, fat-tyre.co.nz

Fergburger Best burgers in NZ. Shotover St, 03 441 1232

Flight Park Tandem ParaglidingOperates from Coronet Peak0800 467 325, tandemparagliding.com

Haka Adventure Snow Tours03 980 4250, hakatours.com

Mad Dog River BoardingRiver sledging & other action-packed water activities, 03 442 7797, riverboarding.co.nz

Milford Sound FlightseeingScenic flights to Milford Sound, 0800 65 65 01, realjourneys.co.nz

Nevis Snowmobile SafarisHelicopter ride & snowmobile adventure, 03 442 4250,snowmobilenz.com

NZONE SkydiveSkydive from 15,000ft. 35 Shotover St, 03 442 5867, nzone.biz

NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt, nzski.com

Queenstown RaftingRaft the Shotiver, Kawarau and Landsborough rivers. 35 Shotover St. 03 442 9792

SOUTHISLAND

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Real Journeys Visitor CentreDoubtful Sound & Milford Sound daytime and overnight cruises. Te Anau glow-worm cave excursions. TSS Earnslaw vintage steamship cruises and Walter Peak High Country Farm.0800 65 65 01, realjourneys.co.nz

Shotover Canyon SwingJump or be released 109m off the world’s highest cliff jump.0800 279 464, canyonswing.co.nz

Shotover Jet Jetboat ride. 0800 746 868 shotoverjet.com

Sky Trek Hang Gliding 03 442 9551, skytrek.co.nz

Vertigo Mountain BikingHeli-bike and gondola downhill. 0800 837 8446, vertigobikes.co.nz

GLENORCHYJust out of Queenstown is Glenorchy (or “Isengard”) which has some of the best walks in the area, including the Greenstone and Caples tracks.

Department of Conservation Beech St, 03 442 7933

Glenorchy Backpackers Retreat (VIP) Cnr Mull and Argyle Streets, Glenorchy, Ph: (03) 442 9902

Kinloch Lodge (BBH) 862 Kinloch Rd, 03 442 4900, kinlochlodge.co.nz

ARROWTOWNPoplar Lodge (BBH) 4 Merioneth St, 03 442 1466, [email protected]

Riverdown Guesthouse (BBH)7 Bedford St, 03 409 8499

TE ANAUHome to the second largest lake in NZ, Te Anau is a beautiful little town, a good jumping off point for

the World Heritage Fiordland National Park. The park is the largest in New Zealand and offers some spectacular sightseeing. The Milford Track is one of the most famous in the world, but often booked out. The Routeburn, Rees-Dart and Kepler are ace alternatives. doc.govt.nz

Fiordland I-site Visitor Centre Lakefront Drive, Te Anau, 03 249 8900

Department of Conservation03 249 8514

Te Anau Glowworm Cavesrealjourneys.co.nz

Air FiordlandFlights to Queenstown, Milford and Mt Cook, 03 249 7505

Real Journeys Coaches to Milford Sound,0800 656 503

Scenic Shuttle Daily between Te Anau and Invercargill in summer months, twice weekly in winter. Connects with the Catlins Coaster from Invercargill to Dunedin 0800 277 483

Top Line Tours Coach to and from Te Anau and Queenstown, 03 249 8059

TE ANAU STAYBarnyard Backpackers (BBH)80 Mt York Rd, Rainbow Downs, 03 249 8006, [email protected]

Bob & Maxines (BBH) 20 Paton Place, 03 931 3161,[email protected]

Grumpy’s BackpackersTe Anau-Milford Sound Highway,03 249 8133, [email protected]

Rosies Backpacker Homestay (BBH) 23 Tom Plato Drive, 03 249 8431, [email protected]

Steamers Beach Backpackers (BBH) 77 Manapouri Rd,03 249 7457, teanau.info

Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers (BBH) 48 Lakefront Dr, 03 249 7713, teanaubackpackers.co.nz

YHA Te Anau 29 Mokonui St, 03 249 7847, yha.co.nz

TE ANAU DOAdventure Fiordland72 Town Centre, 03 249 8500

Fiordland Ecology Holidays3-10 day cruises, all Southern Fiords. Mammal watching permit,0800 249 660, fiordland.gen.nz

High Ride Adventures Quad riding and scenic horse trekking. 03 249 8591, highride.co.nz

Luxmore Jet Jetboating on the Waiau River, 0800 253 826, luxmorejet.co.nz

Real Journeys Doubtful Sound daytime wilderness, small boat and overnight cruises. Milford Sound daytime, overnight scenic, nature and small boat cruises. 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz

Milford Track Day WalkLake cruise and guided walk, 0800 656 501

Rosco’s Milford Sound Sea Kayaks 0800 476 726, roscosmilfordkayaks

Skydive Fiordland Dive 44 Caswell Rd, Te Anau,0800 829254, tawakidive.co.nz

Tracknet 03 249 7737, [email protected]

ANAU TO MILFORDThe distance between Te Anau and Milford Sound may be 119km but the breathtaking scenery along the way makes the journey extremely enjoyable. Along the road watch out for the Mirror Lakes and the disappearing mountain. Another highlight is the 1.2km rough-hewn Homer Tunnel. It’s pitch black, having no lighting plus it’s pretty darn steep – a thrilling experience for those afraid of the dark.

MILFORD SOUNDGreen, wet and breathtakingly beautiful, Milford Sound is one of the most picturesque sights in the world. Much of the action in the Milford Sound takes place on the water and the best way to appreciate the beauty on show is on a cruise or kayak. Bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins all hang out there.

Milford Sound Lodge (BBH)03 249 8071, [email protected]

MILFORD DO

Real Journeys 0800 656 501, [email protected]

Great Sights On and under the water, 03 442 9445

Kiwi Reel RifleGuided fishing & hunting. Kayaking on Lakes Te Anau, Manapouri and Milford Sound. Rental kayaks and mountain bikes, 03 249 9071

Milford Sound Underwater Observatory Discover a coral reef beneath Milford Sound, 03 249 9442

Milford Sound Cruise & Observatory Visit 0800 656 501

Milford Wanderer Cruises Day and overnight options with kayaking, etc. Coach connections, 0800 656 501,realjourneys.co.nz

Tawaki DiveSee Fiordland’s unique marine life on a day-trip with two guided dives in Milford Sound. Rental gear available, max four divers. 0800 829254, tawakidive.co.nz

TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Farm tours, barbecue lunches, horse treks and cycling. realjourneys.co.nz

Wanaka Flightseeing Milford Sound flight and cruise,0800 105 105,flightseeing.co.nz

MANAPOURIManapouri is the proud owner of arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful stretch of water. This is where the boat trip on Doubtful Sound leaves from – most start the trip in Queenstown or Te Anau. From the boat you may see seals and possibly dolphins and penguins.

Adventure Charters and Hires03 249 6626

Real Journeys0800 656 502

MANAPOURI STAYFreestone Backpackers (BBH)270 Hillside Rd, 03 249 6893, [email protected]

Manapouri Lakeview Backpackers (VIP) 68 Cathedral Drive, 03 249 6652, [email protected]

Possum Lodge (BBH)13 Murrel Ave, 03 249 6623.

DOUBTFUL SOUNDIf you’re not one for crowds, an alternative Fiordland option is Doubtful Sound – the deepest of the fiords, made up of 100km of waterways. Where Milford is all pointy peaks and endless cascading falls, Doubtful is rounded mountains – a serene sanctuary,

inhabited by loads of interesting critters.

Real JourneysDaytime wilderness, small boat and overnight cruises.0800 656 502

Fiordland NavigatorPearl Harbour, Manapouri03 249 6602, yha.co.nz

Deep Cove HostelDoubtful Sound, 03 249 7713, hostel.co.nz

INVERCARGILLThe southernmost city in New Zealand, Invercargill is a farming-orientated community with a pleasant collection of parks and museums to keep you busy.

Invercargill I-site Visitors Centre108 Gala St, 03 214 6243

Dept of Conservation Office Don St, 03 214 4589

Catlins CoasterInvercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins with many stops to the main natural attractions and wildlife encounters. Farmstay options are available, 0800 304333,catlinscoaster.co.nz

Stewart Island FlightsFlights to Stewart Island,03 218 9129, [email protected]

INVERCARG STAYKackling Kea Backpackers (BBH)225 Tweed St, 03 214 7950

Southern Comfort (BBH)30 Thompson St, 03 218 3838

Tuatara Lodge (VIP)30 Dee St, 03 214 0956,tuataralodge.co.nz

SOUTHERN SCENICThe beautiful road west of Invercargill towards Fiordland is known as the Southern Scenic Route.

The Dubliner (BBH)105 Tiverton St, Palmerston,03 465 1896,[email protected]

Dustez Bak Paka’s (BBH)15 Colac Bay Rd, Riverton,03 [email protected]

The Globe Backpackers (VIP)144 Palmerston St, Riverton, 03 234 8527,[email protected]

Harbison Backpackers (BBH)5 Harbison St, Otautau,03 225 8715, [email protected]

Shooters Backpackers73 Main St, Tuatapere,03 226 6250


NEW WORLD WINE & FOOD FESTIVALNorth Hagley Park. Dec 8. From $27.50Experience the best food and wine products from New Zealand as well as Australia, South America and California.

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GOREGore spans the Mataura river and boasts some lovely scenery in the Hokonui Hills and the Country and Western festival each June.

Old Fire Station Backpackers (BBH) 19 Hokonui Dr, 03 208 1925,[email protected]

Anglem House 20 Miro Crescent, 03 219 1552, yha.co.nz

THE CATLINSThe beautiful Catlins is a sprawling mass of bush, forest and rivers, stretching all the way from Waipapa Point in Southland to Nugget Point in Otago. The best bit about the Catlins is the abundance of wildlife.

Catlins Community Info Centre3 Main Rd, Owaka, South Otago, 03 415 8371, [email protected]

Elm Lodge Wildlife ToursTwo-day camping trips,0800 356 563,elmwildlifetours.co.nz

CATLINS STAYBlowhole Backpackers (BBH)24 Main Rd, Owaka, 03 415 5635,[email protected]

Curio Bay Backpacker Accommodation (BBH) 501 Curio Bay Rd, 03 246 8797.

The Falls Backpackers (BBH)Purakaunui Falls Rd, Owaka,03 415 8724,[email protected]

Fernlea Backpackers (VIP)Moana St, Kaka Point, 03 412 8834

The Split Level (BBH)9 Waikawa Rd, Owaka,03 415 8304,[email protected]

Surat Bay Lodge (BBH)Surat Bay Rd, New Haven,03 415 8099, www.suratbay.co.nz/

Penguin Paradise Holiday Lodge (BBH) 612 Waikawa-Niagara Rd, Waikawa Village South Catlins, 03 2468 552,[email protected]

Thomas Catlins Lodge & Holiday Park, 03 415 8333, yha.co.nz

Wright’s Mill Lodge (BBH)865 Tahakopa Valley Rd, 03 204 8424catlinsaccommodation.co.nz

DUNEDINDunedin is Celtic for “Edinburgh” and many Scottish principles endure here. One thing the locals do much better than their Scots ancestors is play rugby, so if there’s a game on at Carisbrook (the “House of Pain”) while you’re in town, beg, borrow or steal to get yourself there.

Dunedin Visitor Centre48 The Octagon, 03 474 3300

Dept of Conservation Office77 Stuart St, 03 477 0677

Penguin Patch 9 the Octagon, 03 471 8571,Email: [email protected]

DUNEDIN STAYThe Asylum Lodge (BBH)36 Russell Rd, Seacliff, 03 465 8123

Bus Stop backpackers (BBH)252 Harrington Point Rd, Portobello, 03 478 0330,[email protected]

Chalet Backpackers (BBH)296 High St, 03 479 2075

Dunedin Central Backpackers (BBH) 243 Moray Pl,

03 477 9985, [email protected]

The Jolly Poacher (BBH)74 Elm Row, 03 477 3384

Hogwartz (BBH)277 Rattray St, 03 474 1487,[email protected]

The Jolly Poacher (BBH) 54 Arthur St, 03 477 3384, [email protected]

Kiwis Nest (BBH)597 George St, 03 471 9540.

Leviathan Heritage Hotel27 Queens Gardens, 0800 773 773, [email protected]

Manor House (BBH)28 Manor Place, 03 477 0484, manorhousebackpackers.co.nz

On Top Backpackers (BBH)12 Filleul St, cnr Moray Pl,03 477 6121.

Pennys Backpackers (BBH)6 Stafford St, 03 477 6027,[email protected]

Queens Garden Backpackers (VIP) 42 Queens Garden,03 479 2175, [email protected]

Ramsay Lodge (BBH) 60 Stafford St, 03 477 6313,[email protected]

YHA Dunedin, Stafford Gables71 Stafford St, 03 474 1919,yha.co.nz

DUNEDIN DOBaldwin StreetIn the Guinness Book of Records as the steepest street in the world.

Cadbury World 280 Cumberland St, 0800 223 2879,cadbury.co.nz

Cosmic Corner Funk StoreCheck out the legal highs and chat to the staff about where to go for parties, events and the beautiful parts of New Zealand. 355 George St, 03 479 2949

Dunedin Public Art Gallery30 The Octagon, 03 474 3240,[email protected]

Oamaru Blue Penguin ColonyView blue penguins just metres away every evening at dusk. Waterfront Rd, 1-1/2 hrs north of Dunedin, 03 433 1195, penguins.co.nz

Parachute ExperienceSkydiving from a great height03 489 4113, dropzone.com

Sinclair Wetlands and Educational Centre Freedom or conducted walks over 5km of walkways. Backpacker and camping facilities. Rapid no 854 Clarendon/Berwick Rd (signposted on SH1 30km south of Dunedin), 03 486 2654

Speights Brewery Heritage Tours03 477 7697, speights.co.nz

Royal Albatross Centre03 478 0499, albatross.org.nz

OTAGO PENINSULAThe Otago Peninsula is a beautiful stretch of rugged coast, home to a fascinating collection of rare and native birds such as the albatross and yellow-eyed penguin.

Billy Browns (BBH)423 Aramoana Rd, Port Chalmers, 03 472 8323, [email protected]

McFarmers Backpackers (BBH)774 Portobello Rd, Portobello, 02 5206 0640, [email protected]

OTAGO DOHistoric Fort TaiaroaAn underground complex built in the 1880s, this fortified stronghold has been inhabited since earliest Maori settlement of the area. Tours available at the Visitor Centre. Fletcher House, Broad Bay, 03 478 0180

Larnach Castle Australasia’s only castle. The architecture is amazing and the intricate details (including a foyer ceiling that took nearly seven years to build) are breathtaking.

NZ Marine Studies Centre and Aquarium Run by the University of Otago, the Portobello Aquarium and Marine Biology Centre (near Quarantine Point) is a refuge for a diverse collection of fish and reptile life. 03 479 5826

Elm Wildlife Tours 0800 356 563,elmwildlifetours.co.nz

TAIAROA HEADTaiaroa Head is the place to see the albatross colony, the only mainland colony in the world inside the bounds of a city.

ALEXANDRIAAlexandra and Roxburgh are the two main towns for fruit-picking work in the Central Otago region.

Two Bob Flashpackers (BBH)Marshalll Rd, 03 449 3188, [email protected]

ROXBURGHVilla Rose Backpackers (BBH)79 Scotland St, 03 446 8761, [email protected]

OAMARUA charming little place noted for

both its interesting collection of white granular limestone buildings and its large penguin population.

Visitor Information CentreThames St, 03 434 1656

Oamaru Blue Penguin ColonyView blue penguins at dusk. Waterfront Rd, 03 433 1195,penguins.co.nz

Chillawhile Backpackers (BBH) & Art Gallery 1 Frome St, Roberts Park, 03 437 0168, chillawhile.co.nz

Coastal Backpackers (BBH)The Hall, Waianakarua Rd, All Day Bay, 03 439 5411, coastalbackpackers.co.nz

Buscot Station (BBH)732 Omarama, 03 438 9646, [email protected]

Empire Hotel (BBH)13 Thames St, 03 434 3446, [email protected]

Old Bones Backpackers (BBH)Rapid Number 468 Beach Rd, Kakanui, 03 434 8115,[email protected]

YHA Oamaru, Red Kettle Seasonal (open September/October to May/June only). Corner of Reed and Cross Sts, 03 434 5008, yha.co.nz

Swaggers Backpackers (BBH)25 Wansbeck St, 03 434 9999, [email protected]

MOERAKIJust 30km south of Oamaru lies a remarkable collection of eerie giant boulders.

Olive Grove Lodge (BBH)2328 SH1, Waianakarua,03 439 5830,[email protected]

The Dubliner105 Tiverton St, Palmerston, 03 465 8123

KUROWGlenmac Farm Hostel (BBH) Gards Rd, 03 436 0200,[email protected]

STEWART ISLANDThe third major island of New Zealand, Stewart is home to wide array of wildlife and some good tramping. Much of Stewart Island is uninhabitable, not surprising given that the island contains 1,680km2 of thick, unrelenting bush.

DOC Stewart Island Visitor CentreMain Rd, Half Moon Bay, 03 219 0002

Real Journeys Stewart Island Ferry Services, Paterson Inlet cruises (including Ulva Island), village and bays


RHYTHM AND ALPS Terrace Downs. Dec 28-29. $149 SBTRKT heads a massive line up for this hugely popular two day festival. Get ready for some serious dance music.

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NADI & WESTAquarius Pacific Hotel+679 672 6000

Beach Escape Villas +679 672 4442, beachscape@ connect.com.fj

Cathay Hotel+679 666 0566, fiji4less.com

Horizon Beach Resort+679 672 2832, horizonbeachfiji.com

Nadi Bay Resort Hotel +679 672 3599, fijinadibayhotel.com

Nadi Down Town Backpackers Inn +679 670 0600, [email protected]

Nadi Hotel +679 670 0000, [email protected]

Nomads Skylodge Hotel +679 672 2200

Saweni Beach Apartment Hotel +679 666 1777, fiji4less.com

Smugglers Cove Beach Resort +679 672 6578, smugglers beachfiji.com

Travellers Beach Resort +679 672 3322, [email protected]

YASAWA ISLANDSAwesome Adventures Fiji +679 675 0499, awesomefiji.com

Coconut Bay Resort +679 666 6644 [email protected]

Korovou Eco Tour Resort +679 666 6644 [email protected]

Kuata Resort+679 666 6644

Long Beach Backpackers Resort+679 666 6644

Manta Ray Island +679 672 6351 [email protected]

Nabua Lodge +679 666 9173 [email protected]

Oarsmans Bay Lodge +679 672 2921 [email protected]

Octopus Resort +679 666 [email protected]

Sunrise Lagoon Resort +679 666 6644

Wayalailai Island Resort +679 672 1377 [email protected]

White Sandy Beach Dive Resort +679 666 4066

MAMANUCA ISLBeachcomber Island Resort +679 666 1500,beachcomberfiji.com

Bounty Island Resort +679 666 6999, fiji-bounty.com

Rau Kini’s Hostel +679 672 1959,[email protected]

The Funky Fish Beach Resort +679 628 2333,funkyfishresort.com

The Resort Walu Beach +679 665 1777,walubeach.com

CORAL COASTBeachouse +679 653 0500,fijibeachouse.com

Mango Bay Resort +679 65300690, mangobayresortfiji.com

Pacific Safaris Club +679 345 0498,[email protected]

Rendezvous Dive Resort+679 628 4427, surfdivefiji.com

Robinson Crusoe +679 629 1999,robinsoncrusoeislandfiji.com

Seashell Cove Resort +679 670 6100,seashellresort.com

Tabukula Beach Bungalows +679 650 0097,fiji4less.com

The Uprising Beach Resort +679 345 2200,uprisingbeachresort.com

Tsulu Luxury Backpackers & Apartments +679 345 0065,tsulu.com

Vakaviti Motel & Dorm +679 650 0526,[email protected]

Vilisite Place+679 650 1030

SUVAColonial Lodge +679 92 75248,[email protected]

Lami Lodge Backpackers +679336 2240, [email protected]

Leleuvia Island Resort +679 331 9567, [email protected]

Raintree Lodge +679 332 0562, raintreelodge.com

Royal Hotel +679 344 [email protected]

South Seas Private Hotel +679 331 2296, fiji4less.com

Tailevu Hotel +679 343 0028

NORTH VITI LEVUBethams Cottage +679 669 4132,bethams.com.fj

Macdonalds Beach Cottages +679 669 4633

Morrison’s Beach Cottagess +679 669 4516, [email protected]

Safari Lodge Fijis +679 669 3333safarilodge.com.fj

Volivoli Beach Resort +679 669 4511,volivoli.com

VANUA LEVUBayside Backpacker Cottage +679 885 3154,[email protected]

Hidden Paradise Guest House +678 885 0106

Naveria Heights Lodge +679 851 0157,[email protected]

Savusavu Hot Springs +679 885 0195,[email protected]

TAVEUNIAlbert’s Sunrise +679 333 7555

Matava Resort +679 330 5222,matava.com

Reece’s Place +679 362 6319

Waisalima Beach Resort +679 738 9236,waisalima.com

Photo: Tourism Fiji

follow us on @tnt_downunderONWARDSFIJI

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SURFING Fiji is rightly world-famous for having some of the best surf found on the planet. This used to be frustrating, the reason being that you could only actually get to it as a tourist by staying at a fancy resort. However, last year that all changed and a new law now means that budget boarders can also get to spend some quality time in the blue room. Cloudbreak, a reef break a mile off the island of Tavarua, is the stuff of legend, but there’s plenty of others worthy of your time. The Coral Coast’s Frigate Passage, on Vitu Levu’s south-west corner, is a fun wave, while the Sigatoka Rivermouth, south of Nadi, is Fiji’s only beach break. Note the peak surfing months are from May to October, during the dry season, but there are great waves all year round.

73TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

SYDNEY STAYBase Sydney 477 Kent St. CBD.02 9267 7718, stayatbase.com

Big Hostel 212 Elizabeth St. CBD.02 9267 7718, bighostel.com

Bounce Budget Hotel 28 Chalmers St. CBD.02 9281 2222, bouncehotel.com.au

Easy Go Backpackers 752 George St. CBD. 02 9211 0505,easygobackpackers.com.au

City Resort Hostel 103-105 Palmer St. Woolloomooloo02 9357 3333, cityresort.com.au

The Furnished Property Group02 8669 3678, furnishedproperty.com.au

Sydney Central YHA 11 Rawson Place. CBD. 02 9218 9000www.yha.com.au

Sydney Harbour YHA 110 Cumberland Street. The Rocks.02 9261 1111, yha.com.au

Westend Backpackers 412 Pitt St. CBD. 1800 013 186nomadshostels.com

Boomerang Backpackers 141 William Street, Kings Cross.02 8354 0488, boomerangbackpackers.com

Dlux Hostel 30 Darlinghurst Rd, Kings Cross. 1800 236 213dluxbudgethotel.com.au

Kangaroo Bak Pak 665 South Dowling St. Surry Hills.02 9261 1111

Avalon Beach Hostel 59 Avalon Pde, Avalon Beach.02 9918 9709, avalonbeach.com.au

Bondi YHA 63 Fletcher Street. Tamarama. 02 9365 2088,yha.com.au

Lamrock Lodge 19 Lamrock Ave. Bondi. 02 9130 5063,lamrocklodge.com

Lochner’s Guesthouse 8 Gowrae Ave. Bondi. 02 9387 2162,

Aegean Coogee Lodge 40 Coogee Bay Rd. Coogee.04 0817 6634, aegeancoogee.com.au

Coogee Beachside 178 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee. 02 9315 8511, sydneybeachside.com.au

Surfside Backpackers 186 Arden Street. Coogee. 02 9315 7888,surfsidebackpackers.com.au

Glebe Point YHA 262-264 Glebe Point Road. Glebe. 02 9692 8418,yha.com.au

Boardrider Backpacker Rear 63, The Corso, Manly.02 9977 3411boardrider.com.au

The Bunkhouse 35 Pine St, Manly. 1800 657 122,bunkhouse.com.au

CAIRNS STAYBohemia Central Cairns 100 Sheridan St. 1800 558 589,bohemiacentral.com.au

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

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

Dreamtime Travellers Rest 189 Bunda St. 1800 058 440,dreamtimehostel.com

Gilligans Backpackers and Hotel Resort 57-89 Grafton St. 1800 556 995, gilligans.com.au

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

NJOY Travellers Resort 141 Sheridan St. 1800 807 055,njoy.net.au

Nomads Beach House 239 Sheridan St. 1800 229 228,nomadshostels.com

Nomads Cairns 341 Lake St. 1800 737 736,nomadshostels.com

Nomads Esplanade 93 The Esplanade. 1800 175 716,nomadshostels.com

Northern Greenhouse 117 Grafton St. 1800 000 541,northerngreenhouse.com.au

MELBOURNE STAYAll Nations Backpackers Hotel & Bar 2 Spencer St.1800 222 238, allnations.com.au

Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda.1800 242 273, stayatbase.com

Central Melbourne Accommodation 21 Bromham Place, Richmond.03 9427 9826, centralaccommodation.net

Exford Hotel 199 Russell St. 03 9663 2697,exfordhotel.com.au

Flinders Station Hotel 35 Elizabeth St.03 9620 5100, flindersbackpackers.com.au

The Greenhouse Backpacker Level 6, 228 Flinders Lane.1800 249 207, greenhousebackpacker.com.au

Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Road, St Kilda. 1800 202 500,habitathq.com.au

Home at the Mansion 66 Victoria Parade. 03 9663 4212,homemansion.com.au

Home Travellers Motel 32 Carlisle St, St Kilda. 1800 008718, hometravellersmotel.com.au

Hotel Bakpak Melbourne 167 Franklin St.1800 645 200, hotelbakpak.com

Melbourne Central YHA562 Flinders St. 03 9621 2523,yha.com.au

Nomads Melbourne 198 A’beckett St. 1800 447 762,nomadshostels.com

Space Hotel 380 Russell St. 1800 670 611,spacehotel.com.au

The Spencer 475 Spencer St. 1800 638 108,hotelspencer.com

Urban Central 334 City Rd, Southbank. 1800 631 288,urbancentral.com.au

PERTH STAYBillabong Backpackers Resort 381 Beaufort St. 08 9328 7720,billabongresort.com.au

Britannia on William 253 William St, Northbridge. 08 9227 6000,perthbrittania.com

Emperor’s Crown 85 Stirling St, Northbridge. 1800 991 553,emperorscrown.com.au

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

Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottlesloe. 08 9384 5111,oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au

One World Backpackers 162 Aberdeen St, Northbridge. 1800 188 100,oneworldbackpackers.com.au

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

The Old Swan Barracks 6 Francis St. 08 9428 0000,theoldswanbarracks.com

Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, Northbridge.08 9228 3755, undergroundbackpackers.com.au

The Witch’s Hat 148 Palmerston St. 08 9228 4228, witchshat.com

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

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

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

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

Gecko Lodge 146 Mitchell St. 1800 811 250,geckolodge.com.au

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

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

HOBART STAYCentral City Backpackers 138 Collins St. 1800 811 507, centralbackpackers.com.au

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

Montgomery’s YHA 9 Argyle St.03 6231 2660, yha.com.au

Narrara Backpackers 88 Goulburn St. 03 6234 8801,narrarabackpackers.com

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

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

ADELAIDE STAYAdelaide Oval Home to theAdelaide Backpackers Inn 112 Carrington St.1800 24 77 25, adpi.com.au

Adelaide Central YHA 135 Waymouth St.08 8414 3010, yha.com.au

Adelaide Travellers Inn 220 Hutt St. 08 8224 0753,adelaidebackpackers.com.au

Annie’s Place 239 Franklin St.1800 818 011, anniesplace.com.au

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

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

Glenelg Beach Hostel 5-7 Moseley St. Glenelg. 1800 359 181, glenelgbeachhostel.com.au

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

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

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

ONWARDSAUSTRALIAlike us on facebook/tntdownunder

Manly Backpackers 24-28 Raglan St. Manly. 02 9977 3411manlybackpackers.com.au

Cammeray Gardens 66 Palmer St, North Sydney. 02 9954 9371sydneyboardinghouse.com

BRISBANE STAYAussie Way Backpackers 34 Cricket St.07 3369 0711, aussiewaybackpackers.com

Banana Bender Backpackers 118 Petrie Terrace.07 3367 1157, bananabenders.com

Base Brisbane Embassy 214 Elizabeth St.07 3166 8000, stayatbase.com

Base Brisbane Central 308 Edward St.07 3211 2433, stayatbase.com

Brisbane Backpackers Resort 110 Vulture St, West End. 1800 626 452,brisbanebackpackers.com.au

Brisbane City Apartments1800 110 443, brisbanecityapartments.com

Brisbane City Backpackers 380 Upper Roma St1800 062 572, citybackpackers.com

Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St07 3236 1947, yha.com.au

Chill Backpackers 328 Upper Roma St.1800 851 875, chillbackpackers.com

Bunk Backpackers Cnr Ann & Gipps Sts, Fortitude Valley.1800 682 865, bunkbrisbane.com.au

The Deck Budget Accommodation 117 Harcourt Street, New Farm.04 3377 7061

Tinbilly Travellers Cnr George and Herschel Sts.1800 446 646, tinbilly.com

PYRAMID ROCK FESTIVAL Phillip Island. 29Dec-1 Jan. From $110Bring in the new year with a massive festival in sunny Victoria with big names like 360, Anti-Flag and Van She all playing.

Phillip Island thepyramidrockfestival.com.au

DON’T MISS!

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM74

SUDOKU PUZZLE

36 2 4

3 9

2 7

285

61

2 3 7

5 3

9 8

1 2 56

ANSWERS: 1. d 2. a 3. c 4. b 5. b 6. d 7.c 8. b 9. d

“Not to be confused with the English word batch ‘cos they are very different. A bach in Kiwi land means a holiday cottage. So if you’re invited to someone’s bach, say yes please, they’re usually very picturesque.”

KIWI-ISM“BACH”

6. Who is the protagonist in The Hobbit? a) Frodo b) Gilbo c) Samwyn d) Bilbo

Q 7. Which actor played Aragorn? a) Tom Cruise

b) Brad Pitt c) Viggo Mortensen d) James Nesbitt

Q 8. How many movies are scheduled for The Hobbit franchise?

a) One b) Three c) Five d) 10

Q 9. What was the dragon’s name in The Hobbit book? a) Ereborn b) Albie c) Noer d) Smaug

Q 1. What race does Gollum most closesly resemble in Middle Earth?

a) Orcs b) Elves c) Dwarves d) Hobbits

Q 2. What colour does Gandalf’s cloak become in the Two Towers?

a) White b) Green c) Blue d) Vermillion

Q 3. Which famous author did Tolkien share his ideas with?

a) Beatrix Potter b) J.K. Rowling c) C.S Lewis d) James Barry

Q 4. In which country were the LOTR films predominantly shot? a) USA b) New Zealand c) Australia d) Chile

Q 5. Who created the One ring? a) Gandalf b) Sauron c) Saruman d) Treebear

EDITOR ALEX HARMON

[S.O.S, LCD Soundsystem]

STAFF WRITER HUGH RADOJEV(Home for Christmas N*Sync)

INTERNAMELIA GRAY(Blood, Sugar Sex, Magic, Red Hot Chilli Peppers)

DESIGN & PRODUCTION LISA FERRON(Odyssey Number Five, Powderfi nger)

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TOM WHEELER

(Kid A, Radiohead)

ACCOUNT MANAGER JUSTIN STEINLAUF

(Burnin’, Bob Marley)

SALES EXECUTIVE MIKE RAMSDEN(Anything by the Hilltop Hoods)

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER TRISH BAILEY

(Money, ABBA)

ROADTRIPPING WITH MUM UP THE EAST COAST OF AUSTRALIA

GETTING OUR BOLLYWOOD ON FOR AN INDIAN WEDDING IN DELHI

HEADING TO AUCKLAND’S LANEWAY FESTIVAL

DRINKING LOTS OF PIMMS. BECAUSE IT’S SUMMER, OKAY?

WHAT WE’RE DOING IN SUMMER

AUSSIE RULES FOOTBALLJ.R.R TOLKIEN QUIZ

AND THE ALBUM THEY’D WANT ON A DESERT ISLAND

WHO TO BLAME

Q

TOTALLYTRIVIAL follow us on @tnt_downunder

SWEET AS!

www.kiwiexperience.com

Split Apple Rock, Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

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TNT New Zealand 92

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