newzealand

Penguin Paradise New Zealand

2012-04-11T15:24:03+01:00

Enjoy a guest blog from our NZ Product Manager, Lindi, as she shares the story of a rare penguin adventure on the South Island.

If there’s one thing here in the DTW office that often has us enthralled and amazed it’s the joy of watching those unique members of family Spheniscidae; those aquatic, large, flightless inhabitants of the seabird kingdom, found almost exclusively in the southern hemisphere ..... aka the penguin.

As a company with a real focus on nature and wildlife around the globe, in places as diverse as Antarctica, New Zealand and Iceland, we are lucky to be able to share this collective passion with our clients. Our New Zealand Nature Tour was the perfect starting point for developing an "exclusive" South Island penguin experience holiday for our client, Brenda Hotham. Brenda’s passion for recording every species of penguin had previously led her to Antarctica in 2004 where she was able to view and photograph 7 of the species.

In conjunction with our key partner in New Zealand, Shirley Russ of Wild Earth Travel, we meticulously planned not just a holiday but an experience that Brenda would never forget. In all, Brenda spent 19 days on the South Island, and with no rental car involved, the logistics of travelling around were not that easy! In spite of earthquake aftershocks in Christchurch and the hustle and bustle of the Rugby World Cup her dream became a reality in October last year. Her mission: to find and record her experiences with the Fiordland Crested, Little Penguin and White-flippered penguin.

Yellow-eyed penguins were also soon to be on the penguin “radar” as Brenda has been a firm supporter of the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Trust in Dunedin for many years. We arranged for her to spend a day here visiting “Penguin Place” where she was able to see both Yellow-Eyed penguins and Little Penguins.

The highlight of the holiday proved to be a stay at Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge and a trip out to see Fiordland Crested penguins. “We were so fortunate in the number of penguins we saw and their closeness, including one that blocked our path on the way back along the track and refused to move!”

One of the most stunning (and often overlooked) areas of the South Island and high on my list of the top 5 areas to visit in New Zealand, is Catlins Forest Park. We planned a 3 night stay for Brenda here at Mohua Park. She reported that: “the last day was magical. We left at 4.55am to go to Nugget Point where we saw elephant seals swimming below us. We had our breakfast at a picnic table overlooking the bay and then went for a walk at Cannibal Bay, a beautiful stretch of “untouched” sand occupied by two sealions and some variable oystercatchers. We had lunch at Papatowi and then stopped at other places for bird watching. Sadly the next day I started my return journey to the UK”.

In Brenda’s own words “I stayed in 9 different hotels/motels, went on 6 Intercity coaches, the Tranz Scenic Railway and the Akaroa shuttle and needed 4 taxis. I have now seen and photographed all species/subspecies of penguin. The holiday was awesome and I cannot thank everybody enough who helped to make it such a success”.

Aurora over Christchurch

2012-03-20T10:36:05+00:00

This season has been extraordinary for northern lights sightings, a behaviour likely to continue in late 2012 and into 2013 as the period of solar max continues to produce intense solar flares.

Northern lights over Iceland © RTH Sigurdsson

So what of the more elusive but no less impressive southern lights, or aurora australis? As sun spots and solar storms do their thing, surely this means a more active season down south too.

Well, as a recent image taken by student Koen Broekema on the outskirts of Christchurch show, this could very much be the case, with auroral activity displaying further north than usual.

Occuring as they do in the austral winter months over the polar region, sightings of the southern lights are usually reserved for Antarctic scientists and penguins. Unlike its northern counterpart, the southern auroral zone occurs in an area virtually uninhabited by humans. While it is possible to see the aurora australis from the southern tips of South America, Australia and New Zealand, displays are infrequent. Though, perhaps this will not be the case in 2012.

If you are planning to visit NZ between now and September, remember to allow some time for sky-gazing - you may be lucky enough to witness the magical aurora.

I've always said that New Zealand has it all!

Christchurch reborn and revisited

2012-02-21T17:03:48+00:00

Lindi, our New Zealand Product Manager, updates us on Christchurch one year on.

As we approach the first Anniversary of the tragic earthquake that so decimated the central city of Christchurch it feels appropriate to report that the “new” Christchurch is a city slowly coming to life amidst a major rebuild and redesign project.

I was there in December last year, with my son, Jack, and we spent time in the Port Hills staying with friends. For many visitors, unless you are in the city centre or eastern suburbs, there is no obvious evidence of damage. We took a bus into the city to gauge for ourselves the extent of earthquake damage and walked to Cashel Street Mall, filled with a range of brightly coloured shipping containers housing many small boutique shops and cafes. This small shopping enclave is a key part of the “RE:Start” rebuilding development project – and I can report there was a real buzz about the place, a sense of community and overwhelming support which was very humbling. It was close to Christmas so there was a definite atmosphere of hope and new beginning - even the huge cranes overhead were decked out in decorations and tinsel!

There are clear signs already that the new Christchurch will be born of inspiration and courage and the ideas, contributions and resolute spirit of not just its own community but of all New Zealanders. The Kiwis are a people whose soul and spirit captures you completely and this is never more apparent than in the extraordinary collaboration to rebuild this incredible city.

Whilst visitor attractions are not as plentiful as they were there are still a number of iconic and cultural things to see and do, including punting on the Avon, a visit to the Botanical Gardens and Hagley Park or to the Canterbury Museum. On the outskirts of the city, near the airport, the International Antarctic Centre is still very much open for business and is well worth a visit.

As a main gateway to the South Island, many of our itineraries feature Christchurch at the beginning or end of your holiday, including our 21 day Pure and Simple self-drive tour.

So whilst planning your New Zealand holiday spare a little time for Christchurch and Canterbury if you can. Even if you choose to briefly pass through the city en route to somewhere else the Canterbury region has some wonderful attractions, from incredible whale watching experiences in Kaikoura, to sheer relaxation in the energising thermal pools at Hanmer Springs, or (my personal favourite) encountering Hector’s dolphins, one of the world’s rarest, on a nature cruise in the Akaroa harbour. As an added bonus you can take the TranzAlpine train across to Greymouth on the west coast, regarded by many (including us) as one of the best in the world where you can enjoy some epic scenery.

As the headline on the Stuff NZ website says: “United we stand behind Canterbury”.

Waitangi Day Inspiration

2012-02-06T16:03:46+00:00

As we celebrate Waitangi Day in the office - it's still 6 February in the UK - with a slice of makeshift pavlova (now established as 100% Pure Kiwi) we got to talking about visiting the site where this historic treaty between the Maori chiefs and the British was signed in 1840. As our esteemed Product Manager, Lindi commented, "it is simply stunning and gives me goose bumps every time I visit".

With such a heartfelt recommendation, Waitangi National Reserve surely has to be given serious consideration as you compile a 'must-do' list for your visit to the 'land of the long white cloud'.

Located in the beautiful Bay of Islands in Northland, Waitangi is New Zealand’s most significant historical site. The Treaty House itself, which is one of the country's oldest historic homes, acts as a museum and visitor centre documenting the events that have helped to shape modern New Zealand.

The 506 hectare reserve also houses the Whare Runanga, a Maori meeting house and Ngatokimatawhaorua, the 100ft long war canoe. You can also take a walk around the extensive grounds including the heritage gardens and mangrove boardwalk followed by a refreshment stop at one of the two onsite cafes serving everything from coffee and light snacks to award-winning local dining.

All in all, Waitangi Treaty Grounds is an experience not to be missed... and as chance would have it, fits perfectly into our 21-day self drive itinerary Discover Aotearoa.

Air New Zealand paint it black!

2012-01-31T14:48:16+00:00

It's been 'all white' in the blog world of late, with news of white kiwis and penguins stealing the spotlight, but from last week, things got a whole lot darker as a big black bird appeared over the skies of Britain - the bird in question being an Air New Zealand 777-300 - the first in the new 'All Black' livery.

“The all black colour scheme and silver fern are a key part of both New Zealand’s and the All Blacks’ identity, so we’re excited to be able to take that iconic imagery to the world on a flying billboard that’s more than 242 feet (73.9 metres) long,” says Air New Zealand Group General Manager International Airline Christopher Luxon.

Arriving at Heathrow for the first time on 24 January, this eye-catching aircraft is scheduled to fly into Britain's largest airport up to twice a week as it takes on the classic Air NZ route of London – Los Angeles - Auckland, so keep an eye out...

So, I guess there can be little doubt that the All Blacks are still flying high after their World Cup win last year!

A white christmas at Mt Bruce!

2012-01-17T14:17:08+00:00

Back last year we reported on the birth of Manukura, the world's first white kiwi hatched in captivity. Well, it's happened again, with a second all white kiwi chick hatching just before Christmas!

The happy event once more happened at Pukaha Mt Bruce's national Wildlife Centre and on the photographic evidence I have to say that new arrival may be even cutier than Manakura. Once again, the perfect little chick has been named by local Maori iwi Rangitane o Wairarapa, Mauriora, meaning 'sustained life'

“We were gob-smacked really,” said centre manager Kathy Houkamau. “While every kiwi is precious, to have a second white chick is a delightful gift, especially at this time of year. We thought Christmas had come early in May when Manukura arrived but now it’s come twice.”

Apparently, a small number of North Island brown kiwi carry a white gene, but a white chick only results if both male and female each carry the gene. In an area the size of Pukaha forest (940 hectares), having two white chicks born is nothing short of extraordinary. It is known that both chicks have the same father and it is suspected, the same mother also - so could more white kiwis be still to come?! Watch this space...

For those keen to catch sight of a white kiwi, Manakura the older sibling, is in permanent residence at the Kiwi House at Pukaha Mt Bruce - the perfect detour for those en route to Wellington.

It's good to see that New Zealand's most iconic species is fully embracing the brilliant 100% Pure marketing strategy and thereby helping to boost the profile of kiwi recovery programmes and the like throughout NZ. Nice!

Forget the big five meet the small five!

2012-01-13T16:21:49+00:00

Mark Carwardine recently searched for the 'Small Five' when visiting New Zealand - ‘the land of the long white cloud’. The 'Small Five' trip enabled Mark to witness a group of charming rare and endangered wildlife consisting of the Tuatara, described as a living fossil, Hector's dolphin the smallest of its species, the notoriously cheeky Kea, a beautiful yellow eyed penguin and the iconic New Zealand Kiwi!

His first stop was a tiny island with a big secret, just off the coast of Auckland called Tiritiri Matangi. Home to the reptile Tuatara, Mark had a close encounter with the creature, following a successful stumble in the dark!

Next up was Hector's dolphin, the smallest and rarest marine dolphin in the world.

Mark’s third sighting was the Kea alpine parrot, who took a liking to Mark’s car at a spectacular mountain overlook, just outside Arthur’s Pass in the heart of the Southern Alps. He had this to say about the encounter: “A gang of five kea landed on the roof and bonnet of the car intent on doing their best to cause mischief.”

Fourth was the beautiful yellow-eyed penguin where he had wonderful close encounters with the penguins at the appropriately named Penguin Place near Dunedin, which has a unique system of hides, tunnels and covered walkways to view the birds up-close.

Finally to see the infamous but elusive Kiwi, Mark visited Stewart Island in the south of the island. Finding one in the middle of the night, he “crept up to it, lay down on the grass and realised that it was no more than a foot in front of his face”, wow!

In a couple of weeks Mark had covered all of the small five, not forgetting the many other unique and interesting other animals he sighted along the way. The trip was a huge success and had some wonderfully memorable experiences. If you would like to follow in his footsteps you can find out more about the 18-day self-drive holiday, New Zealand’s ‘small five’ safari here.

Mark Carwardine is a Zoologist, author, photographer, conservationist and TV presenter.

Victory for New Zealand

2011-10-24T18:57:33+01:00

The rugby world cup drew to a fitting close yesterday with the All Blacks prevailing in a tense final against Les Bleus. The rugby may be over, but you just know that the celebrations are only just beginning in a nation where this sport means everything.

I don't think anyone would have expected the scoreline, which effectively consisted of three scores (taking the converted try as one). It was a truly absorbing and emotional final in which the French certainly played their part, but the plaudits ultimately go the most consistent team of the tournament, the All Blacks.

I was on the edge of my seat and with only 20 minutes to go and genuinely felt that the unspeakable might happen with the kiwis letting another World Cup slip through their fingers. I suspect I was not alone in this thought and it shows the tremendous courage and concentration of the team that they kept their cool and held on to that one point lead through to the nail-biting end.

I shed the odd tear as the medals and trophy were presented and was especially happy to see Dan Carter receive his, though my 'man of match' was the Waikato man, Stephen Donald.

So, with the tournament over, is now a good time to visit New Zealand? I'd say it was an excellent time as the buzz from this victory is going to run and run. And with our 10% discount running until the end of October, go on - join the celebrations.

Penguin Rescue

2011-10-21T15:45:25+01:00

Here at DTW we find it hard to resist penguin tales - as past blogs may indicate - and as a fan of knitwear too, the one that just came to my attention is, in my opinion, one of the best yet.

It seems that Skeinz, a natural yarn shop in Napier recently put out a request for help in knitting jumpers for penguins - little blues to be precise. This genuine appeal was made to assist with the ongoing relief effort being conducted to minimise the envrionmental impact of the recent oil spill around the Bay of Plenty.

Quite apart from looking amazingly cute, the idea behind the jumpers is two-fold: to keep the penguins warm where the oil may have impacted the effectiveness of the natural "wetsuit" afforded by their feathers, and also to prevent them from ingesting any toxic substance through preening. Comparisons have been drawn to the plastic head cones used on cats and dogs, if somewhat more stylish.

It seems that saturation has now been reached in terms of jumpers recieved, but you can follow ongoing developments on Skeinz's very own blog.

The number of penguins affected is so far quite small, though larger numbers of other seabirds have been caught in the spill. The situation may be serious but this is one example of finding a positive in the negative.

Comings and Goings in New Zealand

2011-09-02T09:28:25+01:00

As 'Happy Feet' - the wayward emperor penguin that turned up on a New Zealand beach a couple of months ago following a malfunction in his navigational skills - bids farewell to New Zealand's shores, England's World Cup winning rugby team (see what I did there?) arrive.

With only 8 days to go (or 7 days, 10 hours 05 minutes and 17, er 16, 15, 14 seconds) until the World Cup begins, our boys are enjoying Kiwi hospitality in Auckland where they are putting the finishing touches to their training prior to heading down to Dunedin for their opening match against Argentina on Saturday 10 September.

While it's entirely possible that he might have other things on their mind, I wonder if Martin Johnson will give them time off to visit Waiheke Island. Renowed for its glorious vineyards and relaxing ambience, this is my idea of the perfect 'training' venue. Only a short ferry ride from the city (around 40 minutes), Waiheke is one of my top tips for where to spend you first days in 'the land of the long white cloud'.

Though September is a little too early for the eye-catching pohukukawa tree to be in bloom - try November to January for the best displays of vibrant red flowers - the island's gentle landscapes offer the perfect place to kick back discovering arts and crafts, exploring the quiet beaches and coves or simply taking a long lunch at a winery.

So, will the England team take my advice and head over to Waiheke for some R&R? Probably not, but if we don't win the world cup, we'll know the reason why.

100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games

2011-07-13T15:19:55+01:00

As the UK summer stutters and splutters its way through June and now July, offering the odd glorious gem of a day amidst a host of dull, wet and windy weeks, the prospect of the second biennial 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games being held on the South Isand in August doesn't seem such a faraway concept.

In fact, it's all rather exciting, especially for the ski junkies of the northern hemisphere, who've months to wait for the next significant snowfall in Europe. Well, clearly it's time to head to New Zealand...

Taking place between 13 and 28 August 2011, the Games aim to showcase New Zealand as a true winter destination offering 16 days of world class sporting action at locations in Queenstown, Wanaka, Mt Hutt, Dunedin and Naseby - the curling capital of NZ! Topping the bill of competitors is Olympian, Aksel Lund Svindal, the Norwegian skier who took triple gold in Vancouver.

The packed programme includes alpine skiing, cross country skiing, winter triathlon, free skiing, snowboarding, ice hockey, figure skating and of course, curling.

Definitely 100% cool - and yes, I may have borrowed this!

Tour of a lifetime

2011-06-23T10:08:08+01:00

On the 6^thof February, New Zealander's celebrate their National Day, Waitangi Day. Waitangi Day is to commemorate the signing of the country’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi.

Signed by Queen Victoria and Ngapuhi chiefs, this document recognized Maori ownership of their lands and gave the Maori the rights to British subjects – the translation of the documents into English and Maori have been the source of controversy till this day. Waitangi Day took place in 1840 – which makes New Zealand one of the youngest countries in the world!

To make the most of this special occasion, Cultural Crossroads have a tour that offers a complete immersion into the Maori culture and excursions to surrounding areas of importance. This tour is rated a ‘Tour of a Lifetime’ by National Geographic Traveller. Discover the World can help you experience the real New Zealand and also participate in this impressive tour as an 'added extra' to your itinerary.

The holiday options you have that include a visit to the Bay of Islands area are Pure and Simple, The Real New Zealand (4x4), Discover Aotearoa.

A long, long way from home

2011-06-22T09:36:37+01:00

Courtney Linnecar, from the Discover the World team, keeps us up to date with an important event that took place in New Zealand this week...

An unexpected visitor has arrived on the shores of the Kapiti Coast, which is near Wellington New Zealand. A local resident by the name of Christine Walton was out walking her dog when she saw a ‘glistening white thing’ on the sand. It was in fact an Antarctic emperor penguin.

It is only the second emperor penguin ever to reach the shores of New Zealand, the last one arriving at Southland’s Oreti Beach in 1967 – so this particular penguin must be an Olympic swimmer of some sort as he is very, very far from home!

Emperor penguins are the largest penguins and feed on fish, krill and squid – maybe he was chasing his next meal, but why these animals visit the shores of New Zealand is unknown. You can see emperor and other types of penguins when visiting Antarctica, for more information on our epic Antarctic voyages, click here.

To watch a fantastic video capturing the penguin on the Kapiti Coast, click here.

A magical escape to Middle-earth

2011-06-16T10:46:35+01:00

The summer months mean crowds of people following the sun and waiting in long queues for the attraction that EVERYBODY wants to visit too. Sound like your typical break? Well you should think about escaping to New Zealand during their wintertime. Winter I hear you say? Yes winter – it is a magical time to visit and you can take advantage of the great value airfares on offer too.

Picture snow-capped mountains and green rolling hills, roaring waves crashing along heart-stirring coastlines. Welcome to a country of dense rainforests, lakes and wild rivers teeming with fish. You can take a helicopter flight over mountain ranges or better yet ski these breath-taking slopes. Hike up and around glaciers or take a cruise throughout fjords – there is something for everyone, even ice-skating and curling in some places! To top off your active days, settle in by the fire of your cosy lodge accommodation with a glass Pinot Noir or have a soak in one of the many thermal pools!

If you are looking for a bit of fun, you can not beat the Queenstown Winter Festival – it is one of the hottest tickets and events on the New Zealand Calendar, with many Kiwis' (the people not the birds!) congregating in the resort town during 24 June - 3 July.

If you are interested in learning more, get started with our Winter Wonderland.

Rugby World Cup - 100 days go to!

2011-06-02T12:11:41+01:00

With only 100 days to go until the Rugby World Cup kicks off in New Zealand, it is pretty much now or never if you want to be part of rugby's biggest event in the 'Land of the Long White Cloud'. There is still limited availability, but realistically, not for much longer.

So why should I visit New Zealand during the World Cup?
Well, I don't think I'd be doing a disservice to other great rugby nations if I describe New Zealand as the spiritual home of this sport, where passion borders on obsession (in a good way, or course). The All Blacks are the best team in the world, after all - though don't tell England, Australia or South Africa all of whom seem to have a better hold on the Webb Ellis trophy!

In addition, Kiwis are the consummate hosts making New Zealand the perfect place to immerse yourself in rugby fever as well as discover the many delights of this island nation. September and October is going to be a truly exciting time to visit NZ as a nationwide celebration sweeps the country with events, festivals and 'real Kiwi' experiences on offer. Find out details on the Real New Zealand Festival website.

There's never a bad time to visit New Zealand, it's just some times are better than others. Right!?

'The Hobbit' underway in New Zealand

2011-04-14T11:08:06+01:00

I can't help it. I'm excited! Genuinely so. For after what has seemed like the longest time and innumerable problems and interuptions, 'The Hobbit' has started filming in Middle Earth, er, New Zealand.

I blogged a while ago about the positives of another encounter with NZ's fine landscapes on the silver screen and frankly I think we all need to focus on the positives right now.

So, as Ian McKellan's Gandalf and fellow Brit cast members now take up residence in New Zealand for the duration of the shoot - including newcomers James Nesbitt and Martin Freeman - perhaps now is the time to join them before the world once again remembers how amazing this country really is and heads for the Misty Mountains.

With a release date of 19 December 2012, i've finally something to look forward to after the Olympics!

For the latest gossip on the shoot, click here >>

Skycouch Launches with Air New Zealand

2011-04-04T14:50:18+01:00

This week our New Zealander from the Marketing team, Courtney, keeps us up to speed with Air New Zealand’s exciting developments...
Picture being stretched out, cosy and actually at ease in Economy … with Air New Zealand’s innovative new “Skycouch”.

We let you know in February that “Skycouch” was being introduced in Economy on flights from Auckland to Los Angeles in December 2010, but are soon to be available on selected London (via Los Angeles) routes. Have it anyway you want it - whether you’re a couple wanting to cuddle down for some rest, or a parent with young ones, “Skycouch” creates a flexible space formed of 3 seats.

Gone are the days with awkward arm rests and gaps between seats; now you can lie flat or pull your knees and feet up for greater comfort. You can adjust your winged headrest, pop your glass of Award-winning New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc in the cup holder while enjoying your evening meal in style. Economy never felt so good!

For more information on the specifics of the “Skycouch”, Premium Economy and Business Class seating features click here.

In other Air New Zealand news…the high energy, diverse flight crew are back spinning a new twist on the safety briefing – this time with a little more clothing than in the previous safety video but beware of the spandex!

The team have enlisted the help of fitness extraordinaire Richard Simmons to lead the 80’s exercise-themed briefing; imagine bright colours, choreographed dance moves mixed with sensible tips for aircraft safety.

This perky revival of an often dull airline procedure will likely get everyone onboard stowing their tray table safely away and being well aware of the emergency exit closest to them. View the new video here.

'New Zealand is Open'

2011-03-23T10:43:44+00:00

Following the devastating earthquake in Christchurch last month, Tourism New Zealand have launched an earthquake recovery campaign to remind travellers that 'New Zealand is Open' and is still a great place to visit. Far from minimising the gravity of the situation in Christchurch, the message simply shows that visiting New Zealand now is the best way people can show their support for the country's second largest city, as the long process of rebuilding begins.

This is certainly not just a message being promoted by TNZ, but by many in New Zealand's vital travel sector, including us. A group of Kiwi travel bloggers have organised Blog4NZ, a three day event, ending today, encouring bloggers around the world to write about their experiences travelling to New Zealand and in so doing promote others to visit now more than ever.

New Zealand is still a magical destination with so many experiences on offer from the twin coasts of Northland to the rugged wilds of Southland. It is not exageration to say that every region has something to suprise and entice.

The message is simple and the sentiment genuine - 'Come and have some fun!'.

And finally...

New Zealand Earthquake Appeal: In order to support our New Zealand colleagues, friends and business partners in the Christchurch and Canterbury region, Discover the World will donate £10 per person for any clients booking a holiday to New Zealand by 31st May 2011. Despite the devastating and tragic events that occurred in Christchurch, our aim is to contribute in some small way by helping to raise funds for the relief effort now underway and also to encourage our clients to visit this incredible country.

If you would like to make a donation direct to the Red Cross Appeal, please follow this link www.redcross.org.uk/newzealand or telephone 0845 054 7200.

Sweet Taste of Success

2010-12-03T13:09:55+00:00

It's officially a Kiwi dish according to the latest edition of the Oxford English Dictionary.

Pavlova is in my opinion one of the finest desserts on the planet - meringue, cream and sugared fruit - and for almost a century the Aussie's and the Kiwi's have been claiming it as their own.

Well according to an article read in the Independent online this morning, the latest online edition of OED notes that the first recorded recipe for 'pav' appeared in a New Zealand publication in 1927, which would be 8 years prior to when the Aussies claim it was first invented. Both NZ and Australia agree on the origin of the dish as being in honour of an Antipodean tour by the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova.

Well, I'm glad that's cleared up then.

I'm quite happy that both the Aussies and the Kiwis have taken this dessert to their hearts, since frankly there can never be too much pavlova!

New Zealand is Middle Earth!

2010-10-28T15:34:58+01:00

After weeks of tense negoiations between film execs and it would seem the entire Kiwi population, a deal has been made to keep the filming of Peter Jackson's two part 'Hobbit' saga in New Zealand and I for one am heartily relieved.

The idea that Middle Earth can be re-created anywhere other than NZ is simply incomprehensible. Bilbo Baggins in Farnham Forest rather than Fangorn Forest is just not quite right. I have nothing against Farnham Forest (well, Bourne Wood to be specific) and indeed it has provided excellent backdrops for both Gladiator and the recent Robin Hood film, but I want to visit the Middle Earth I already know - that of the Lord of the Rings trilogy - that of New Zealand.

As anyone who has travelled around New Zealand will know, the scenery of Lord of the Rings was not just a collection of elaborate sets, but a window onto New Zealand's glorious landscapes with a few elves and orks thrown in for good measure. Check out our Journey through Middle Earth itinerary to see for yourself.

This is definitely good news and surely the best excuse I've had today for a glass or two of ale! Pippin and Merry will require little more incentive.

One Year to Go!

2010-09-27T10:52:13+01:00

With only one year to go until the world cup kicks off in New Zealand, the promoters have come up with a neat video marking the countdown to the tournament, entitled, well, "One Year to Go" of course.

It seems hard to believe that three years have past since a giant rugby ball was erected beneath the Eiffel Tower in Paris, but such is a speedy passing of time, that in only 12 months the biggest sporting event in New Zealand's history will begin.

With this in mind and if you're considering visiting New Zealand next Autumn (ours, not theirs), it really is time to start putting that vague travel idea into a more cohesive holiday plan. Whether or not you want to be part of the rugby fiesta, New Zealand is going to be absolutely buzzing this time next year making it a memorable time to visit. So start planning...

Come & Meet Us at the British Birdwatching Fair!

2010-08-11T16:05:26+01:00

Come and meet us at the world's largest international bird watching event where our New Zealand and Australia Specialists, Lindi and Liz, will be on hand to discuss our range of fantastic birding and wildlife holidays in New Zealand, Australia and beyond.

The Birdwatching Fair is a three day event and has been described as the ‘birdwatcher’s Glastonbury’! Offering visitors a programme packed with everything from bird shows to interactive workshops, a charity auction to a variety of shopping opportunities, selling everything from sculptures to binoculars. Take time to also enjoy the various lectures throughout the show and leave feeling inspired ready to explore the world's incredible wildlife.

Visit us in Marquee 4. We’ll be on the Australian Birdwatching stand (no. 41,42) as well as the Heritage Expeditions and Wild Earth stand (no. 43,44) where you can talk to us about New Zealand wildlife holidays as well as expedition voyages to Antarctica and beyond.

20 - 22 August 2010
At Egleton Nature Reserve
Rutland Water, Oakham, Rutland
See it on the map here»

Find out more and purchase your tickets at www.birdfair.org.uk »

New Zealand Wildlife Holidays »
Australia Wildlife Holidays »
Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic Expedition Voyages »

New Zealand Cycle Trail

2010-08-09T17:16:16+01:00

Back in the heady days of early summer, 20 June to be precise, several members of our team here at DTW (me included) joined 27,000 other participants in the annual London to Brighton bike ride in support of the British Heart Foundation. Months, or in some cases simply minutes, of dedicated training culminated in a jovial posse of lycra clad 'athletes' setting off through the streets of South London en route to the seaside, some 54 miles away.

It really was a great day and quite apart from raising lots of money for charity it turns out that cycling is the new passion for many of us in Arctic House (though not actually in the office of course). So, it's a good thing that the NZ Cycle Trail has just got underway.

As Team DTW look for our next challenge could the proposed cycling network across New Zealand be the answer?

The initial sections opened last month on the the North Island forming part of the Ruapehu to Whanganui trail and with the full project intending to link existing 'great rides' throughout the country in a continuous 3,000 km route by the end of 2011, I think we'd best get training.

But you don't have to wait for the trail to be completed to experience the joys of the Kiwi landscape on two wheels. You can hire bikes all over New Zealand and in particular, pedal power makes an excellent way to negiotiate the wine regions of Hawkes Bay and Marlborough. For those interested in a more inclusive cycling holiday complete with guides and fellow participants, check out our West Coast Glaciers itinerary.

The Return of the Tuatara…

2010-05-25T12:30:00+01:00

Another blog from Holly, one of our New Zealand travel specialists

While the thought of the return of an exotic reptile may engender panicked thoughts of Godzilla, fleeing citizens and destroyed cities, the species in question today is much less stroboscopic in its movement and more inclined to making a burrow for itself or just kick back and sunbathe. No, they are not chilled out college students either, but rather New Zealand's best and most elusive offer in connecting the modern world to our reptilian past - the dinosaurs. Commonly referred to as 'living fossils' these lizard like creatures are approximately 30 inches in length and though they bear resemblance to lizards, actually belong to a species category all of their own: the Tuatara.

Like much of New Zealand's animal kingdom, such as the Kiwi Bird, the Kea and the Weta, they are unique to the small Polynesian country and were actually extinct on the mainland North and South Islands until recently, when in 2005, a small population was released into the Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary. 5 years later and much to the delight of the sanctuary staff, a hatchling was sighted in the park, indicating that at least two of their reptilian wards were breeding. So what, I hear you ask? Well, consider that Tuataras are the slowest breeding reptile in the world, taking as long as 2 to 5 years to complete a reproductive cycle; a fact (combined with the introduction of colonial predators) that lodged them securely on the Endangered Species list way back in 1895. This recent discovery of youth on mainland New Zealand is only the second sighting of an infant Tuatara in over 200 years! A little more exciting now eh?

Of course Zealandia is not the only menagerie to hold Tuatara, although it is the landscape most akin to what the Tuatara would have known as home before they were made extinct. The reserve stretches across 225 hectares of wood and wetland area and houses hundreds of New Zealand's endemic flora and fauna living wild, in a mission to reverse the 700 year sequence of decline and extinction New Zealand has suffered, compounded by the introduction of western predators heralded with the arrival of the Pakeha (the white-man) 200 years ago. The Southland Museum and Art Gallery of Invercargill has developed a Tuatara breeding program itself and recently enjoyed success with the birth of a baby in 2009, while the Wellington Zoo and Hamilton Zoo also endeavour to continue the new flourish of Tuatara life with their own conservation and breeding efforts. With a bit of luck, the tide of baby Tuataras will soon swell and we may just see a near return to the Jurassic on New Zealand!

Inspired to experience New Zealand's wildlife? Click here

Anzac Day

2010-04-23T16:35:41+01:00

This Sunday is ANZAC Day, one of the most important dates in the antipodean calendar. A national holiday in Australia and New Zealand, the 25 April marks the anniversary of the significant contribution that the troops of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps made during the First World War and subsequently in WWII and other military operations. This includes the well-documented campaign at Gallipoli, which began on 25 April 1915.

In Australia and New Zealand each year the day is commemorated with gatherings in towns throughout both countries and shops and hotels remain closed on Anzac Day morning, while in London, a service is held at Westminster Abbey.

Anzac Day is also marked by social gatherings and sporting events such as the Anzac Test - an annual rugby league match between Austalia and New Zealand, this year to be held on 7 May in Melbourne.

Again, in the UK the ANZAC Sports Challenge Shield, won by the Kiwis for the first time last year is being held tomorrow, Saturday, 24 April at Grasshoppers RFC in Isleworth, London. Events being contested are:

6th ANZAC Netball Cup
6th Touch ANZAC Cup
4th Rugby League ANZAC Cup
4th Football ANZAC Cup
3rd Rugby Union ANZAC Cup
Innagural Tag ANZAC Cup

New Volcano Charter - Your Holiday is Protected

2010-04-22T18:10:12+01:00

Here at Discover the World we are committed to providing you with the best possible service and understand that the recent air travel disruption may have highlighted some travel concerns. To offer you reassurance in your future travel plans we would like to advise you of our new clear and transparent travel policy.

New Volcano Customer Charter – Applicable to all our Destinations

This comes into effect in the event of any further ash cloud disruption where an airline does not provide this equivalent level of care and assistance.

Flight Cancellations

In the event that it is not possible for your outward flight(s) to operate within 24 hours of the scheduled departure time we will do our best to rearrange your holiday for a later date or if you prefer, receive a full refund of the holiday costs that you have paid to us (excluding any travel insurance premium).

If your scheduled return flight(s) are cancelled and it is necessary for you to remain in your destination and if the airline does not make these arrangements for you, then we will provide you with accommodation and meals until such time that we or the airline can make alternative travel arrangements. This may include returning you to an alternative UK airport via an alternative route, in order to repatriate you to your original UK departure airport.

Holiday Alterations / Rerouting

If you are on holiday and it becomes necessary to alter or reroute any of our holiday itineraries then we will make these arrangements for you at no additional cost.

To read our complete new Volcano Customer Charter and conditions please click here.

Please contact our specialist team if you require any further advice.

Return to Middle Earth

2010-03-18T17:24:12+00:00

It's been 7 long years since we last visited Middle Earth in a cinematic context and though the wait is not quite over (sorry), those of us yearning for a return to Rivendell and the Misty Mountains can take comfort in the fact that 'The Hobbit' is due to start filming in New Zealand this summer (though it's actually winter down there).

The film, based on Tolkien's novel, will be followed by a sequel and both new films are prequels to the fabulous Lord of the Rings trilogy by Peter Jackson the Great. Mr Jackson takes on a producing role this time, leaving the directing to Spaniard Guillermo del Toro best known for the Hellboy films and Pan's Labyrinth.

I can think of few films that have showcased a country as much as LOTR did New Zealand. Quite apart from being stunning fantasy epics, each of the three films was like a travelogue of NZ's fabulous landscapes. Peter Jackson may have used special effects to great end to create a world of orcs and hobbits and ents, and the actors certainly did there bit, and I suppose Tolkien should get a mention, but in terms of conveying the majesty of Middle Earth - that honour solely belongs to New Zealand.

You only have to visit for yourself to recognise this and might I suggest our Journey through Middle Earth itinerary as a starting point.

Anyway, I think this is the perfect excuse to watch the LOTR trilogy once again. So, before the weather really warms up, open a bottle of pinot and settle down for a terrific adventure through Aotearoa with Aragorn and Frodo.

Btw, in 'The Hobbit' Sir Ian McKellan is reprising his role as Gandalf. Wonder what colour he'll be this time?

An Unexpected 'Je Ne Sais Quoi' from New Zealand

2010-02-25T12:12:54+00:00

This week one of our New Zealand travel specialists, Holly, reminisces about Akaroa - a little French enclave on the far side of the world...

Over the Port Hills and far away… you’ll find charming little Akaroa. Originally Akaroa was a French settlers town and a port for ships bringing immigrants seeking the New Zealand gold rush and hope of a future unknown, and I found it now to be an attractively petite town on Banks Peninsula, just an hours picturesque drive from Christchurch. As you draw over the final hill, the Akaroa Harbour spreads itself beneath you with its small waves winking playfully in the sun, and while you descend the winding path to sea level, the road evens out and leads you through the min uscule little settlements lining the bay. The names and quaint architecture of these tiny patchwork hamlets and farms still pay homage to their continental ancestry and even Akaroa itself curves around the shores of ‘French Bay’.

Having visited in both summer and winter I would have to say it’s a town that simply flourishes in the warmer months, when the days are sun-lavished, long and lazy and the sparkling waters play host to boats around the harbour shooting jet skiers out behind them, and the small flocks of kayakers that serenely float their way around the bay. I can still feel the memory of my gigantic fresh fruit ice cream dripping gently down its cone and covering my fingers as we wandered across the sandy beaches catching whiffs of fresh grass and wiggling my toes into the gritty sand.

The towns focal point, other than its French ancestry, is very much the marine resources it has just on its door step; marine life flourishes in the harbour like the White-flippered Penguins and miniature hector dolphins (one of the rarest dolphin species in the world and endemic to New Zealand) that gather and play at the mouth of the harbour, and even the jewellery produced in Akaroa is aquatic being produced mostly from famous New Zealand Paua Shell or Blue Pearl, but there are plenty of things to do without getting your feet wet too. The attractive parade of shops along the waterfront are a great place to find souvenirs and relax in a café for lunch.

For the quirky art lovers, or just those who enjoy afternoon tea with a difference, the Giants House Artists Garden is a must, with its mosaic-ed citizens lounging and lolling across the grounds, and surreal sculptures littering the grass. The steep hills and forests around the town are wonderful for walks among the green bush and fields, though be careful of wandering into private sheep fields!

My memories of Akaroa in the summertime sing out to me still, of afternoons spent baking happily in the sun and feeling the dappled shade of trees creeping across my shins as the day wore on. I recall it as being a lush green town, with blossoming gardens and plants elegantly poking their heads from any crevasse they could grow through, exquisite original Victorian homes and cottages, crisp oceanic breezes that caress your skin and the mouth-watering smell of fish and chips filling the evening air as the sun slips towards the horizon. It was, and remains, one of New Zealand’s star adornments in my eyes and enchants visitors with a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’.

Bird Up!

2010-02-04T11:36:47+00:00

You recall Sirocco, the New Zealand parrot (or kakapo) that took a shine to wildlife presenter Mark Carwardine and subsequently stole the show on the recent BBC One series 'Last Chance to See'? Well, he's back and this time its political... sort of.

Sirocco's now infamous 'flirtation' with Mark proved such a hit on Youtube, clocking over half a million hits (including featuring on this blog), that New Zealand prime minister John Key has appointed the loveable parrot as 'spokesbird for conservation'. Seriously, these Kiwis’ are simply masters of the creative promotion.

Essentially Sirocco's role is to bring greater awareness of conservation issues and the plight of endangered birds, as is explained in a video created in collaboration with Tourism New Zealand. Click here to view»

So, 'Last Chance to See' co-presenter Stephen Fry may be known for his Tweets, but when it comes to Youtube he's seriously small fry (boom boom) compared to Sirocco. Sorry!

Air New Zealand Beds in Economy

2010-01-26T16:05:06+00:00

Could it really be that the next phase in long-haul travel will offer beds in economy?! Well, yes, as Air New Zealand's latest development unveiled today reveals.

The "Skycouch" has been specially designed inhouse and comprises a row of three seats engineered to create a flexible bed space formed by use of a foot-rest rising to the level of the three seats. Hmmm, I'm not quite sure I follow either, thus enter the visual prompt below. Basically, two adults travelling together would buy two seats for the standard fare and the third seat for around half price.

As Rob Fyfe, the airlines chief exec comments - "For those who choose, the days of sitting in economy and yearning to lie down and sleep are gone. The dream is now a reality, one that you can even share with a travelling companion - just keep your clothes on, thanks." Skycouches are due to be introduced from November this year.

Air NZ already offer an exceptional level of service for long-haul customers and were recently voted Airline of the Year 2010 by the catchily named Air Transport World Global Airline Awards. They continue to set the benchmark for long-haul travel and should always be high on your list of airlines to consider for flights to the Antipodes.

But doesn't it seem ironic that they are tagging the launch of their new 'beds' in economy with the line "keep your clothes on"? Body paint notwithstanding I presume.

New Zealand's Town for All Seasons

2009-12-11T16:55:51+00:00

So it's winter here and summer in New Zealand. When it comes to the apline town of Hanmer Springs, the season really doesn't matter as Holly, one of our expert New Zealand travel consultants, reveals...

"Hanmer Springs in New Zealand, was in my opinion a shiny little jewel in the crown of the South Island. My first visit was fleeting; a quick diversion for a rest stop on the way home to Christchurch from a family holiday in Kaiteriteri - another sparkling diamond of the Island, but it was enough to spark my interest in going back as soon as I could. We drove up the small road off Route 7, over the Waiau Ferry Bridge where I spotted the 1^st reason I knew I was to return: Thrillseekers Canyon Headquarters. Now this may not be to everyone’s taste but my fire was certainly lit! Thrillseekers offers a smorgasbord of fast paced, adrenaline charged outdoor activities, perfect for travellers looking to integrate some of the famous Kiwi adventure pastimes to their travels.

1 month later, I’m back. Standing with my toes hanging over the edge of the Waiau Ferry Bridge, ankles bound in Velcro and heart leaping into my now extremely dry mouth. I gather my courage (or more truthfully tell myself to stop being a pansy), scrunch up my eyes and ball my fists and suddenly I’m free falling through 35 metres of nothing but air. Suffice to say, I have never experienced a feeling quite like it. Scooping through the air, the adrenaline suddenly scrabbling its way through my maze of veins, my elastic umbilical cord the only connection to the world... it was unreal.

After the jump, I’m still buzzing from the euphoric rush of adrenaline and what better way to wind down than to simmer in a thermal hot-pool? We drove the rest of the short road from the river into town, lined with native trees flourishing their autumnal red and golden plumage in the breeze, and entered the hot-springs reserve. The pools were extraordinary and really a great way to relax after feeling so wired from my bungy experience. The spa has a varied collection of heated pools, ranging from 33 – 42 degrees C and each one is sign posted with information regarding the temperature and information on health benefits of the natural Jacuzzis.

Expeditions to Hanmer Springs remained a temptation for the rest of my stay in The Garden City, sitting just north of Christchurch like a miniature beacon, calling to me. It is a town that shines in all seasons, offering a plethora of activities to lure you back, from the adrenaline junkies’ highs, to gentle horse rides across the spectacular scenery and the bizarre quad-cycles roving around the town. Simmering in a naturally heated mineral pool, while gazing at the frost covered landscape and snow capped mountains is truly one of my favourite memories of the beauty of New Zealand".

The Antics of the New Zealand kakapo

2009-10-22T09:53:39+01:00

If you haven't yet watched 'Last Chance to See' there is still time to catch the entire series on BBC iPlayer though particular attention should really be paid to episode 5 featuring the all-star kakapo.

It is truly worth an hour of your time and not just for the superb opening sequence flying over Fiordland or the visit to Wellington to encounter a 'dinosaur' (tuatara to you and me), or even the interview with Peter Jackson about his childhood memories of the dreaded weta. As the quest to find the kakapo (the fat, flightless bird) builds throughout the programme, the culmination is not just a suprisingly touching and well-observed glimpse into a superb conservation effort, it also produces a fantastic moment of inter-species bonding as Sirocco the kakapo rather takes a shine to Mark Cawardine and mounts his head to embark on a mating ritual. Naturally Stephen Fry is on hand to offer some eloquent observations and it really is 'must-see' TV for the wildlife fan.

Mating for the few kakapos left in existance is no easy task requiring 'booming' (the kakapos loud low-frequency mating call) for an average of 8 hours a night, for 3-4 months of the year and losing half their body weight in the process. Sirocco obviously felt the opportunity with Mark was worth taking.

If this ‘Last Chance to See’ episode in New Zealand not only made you laugh but also captured your heart then I urge you to travel there and witness for yourself this incredibly beautiful country that is home to truly unique wildlife…

Last Chance to See...

2009-10-02T16:31:58+01:00

In case you haven't been watching the excellent series 'Last Chance to See' on BBC2 with Stephen Fry and Mark Carwardine, now is the time to start, with Sunday's episode (4 October) seeing the pair travel to New Zealand in search of the kakapo - a 'fat', flightless parrot that is also the rarest in the world.

'Last Chance to See' was inspired by the BBC radio series of 20 years ago when author Douglas Adams travelled with Mark Carwardine around the world in search of endangered and rare animals. This included the portly kakapo, which two decades on retains the lead role, though the 2009 programme also gives the chance for several other species of New Zealand's native wildlife to shine, such as...

... the lizard-like tuatara, actually a prehistoric reptile that is unique to New Zealand and can be found in Zealandia: The Karori Sanctuary Experience in Wellington. Then there's the kaka, another native parrot that also resides in this unique urban sanctuary and as the programme reveals is anything but shy. As you'd expect kiwi are encountered by the pair near Whangarei in the far north together with takehe (you got it - a flightless bird) while its in the far south near Stewart Island that the encounter with kakapo occurs.

The considerable efforts of New Zealand's many conservation projects should mean it isn't the last chance to see these many of these curious creatures all of which are thoroughly engaging and feature on our nature tour New Zealand's 'Small Five'.

By the way, if you're reading this post after the event, don't forget you can watch the entire series, paying particular attention to the New Zealand episode of course, on BBC iplayer.

The Wonder of Milford

2009-07-31T09:52:41+01:00

When I used to browse my Marks and Spencer hard back title 'Wonders of the World', I thought it was all so easy - there were seven natural wonders and seven man-made wonders and that was that. But that was only scratching the surface as numerous lists emerged with categories ranging from 'ancient' to 'modern' and 'underwater' to 'forgotten'. The Seven Wonders of the World are subject to continuous scrutiny and given the wealth of amazing sites across the globe, this is not surprising.

In the search for the New Seven Wonders of the World, New's Zealand's spectacular Milford Sound is one of 28 finalists as compiled by the website www.new7wonders.com based on votes collated from around the world.

Once dubbed by Rudyard Kipling as the 'eighth wonder of the world', Milford Sound is much heralded and was also judged the top travel destination by TripAdvisor's 2008 Travelers' Choice Destination Award. Little wonder for those who have visited.

The glorious site of Mitre Peak rising high above the deep fiords of Milford Sound is a feature of one of New Zealand's most popular experiences - a cruise on the ribbon-like fiords of the Sound. Whether on a day cruise or an overnight adventure, Milford offers an experience to savour. Waterfalls cascade down the sheer rock faces, while lush rainforests blanket the peaks and valleys. The deep still waters play host to seals, dolphins and penguins, that quite simply provide the sort of encounters you'll treasure forever.

Whatever the result of the final selection, there is no doubt that Milford is one of New Zealand's treasures and well worth a visit.

Make a move…

2009-06-19T16:55:37+01:00

My colleague Andy has found out the latest research that prove it's not just us that big-up New Zealand!

The ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ is internationally renowned as a site of extraordinary beauty and home to friendly locals, and it looks like the British are catching on. In a recent survey of worldwide British ex-pats, New Zealand came out as the best destination for any prospective movers.

Leaving the M25 for uncluttered coastal roads, and swapping endless miserable winters for t-shirts all year round (let's assume they've moved to the North Island), British émigrés in New Zealand enjoy the beautiful scenery and the charming hospitality of Kiwis all year round. If you want to see what all the fuss is about or maybe scout for your next home the answer is simple - plan your own trip to this amazing country. Enjoy driving the Pacific Coast Highway, chilling out in the Bay of Islands or indulge in a relaxing drink in Auckland’s glorious harbour.

Absolutely Wizard!

2009-06-05T16:38:38+01:00

In the recent Queen's Honours List one of New Zealand's most eccentric characters, The Wizard was awarded a Queen's Service Medal for services to the community. These 'services' are hardly typical including casting spells for his province's rugby team (important), performing rain dances (useful) and entertaining visitors to Christchurch with elaborate orations in the main square (er, most entertaining).

The Wizard, which is his legal name by the way, was for many years an iconic tourist attraction in Christchurch's Catherdral Square where he used to appear daily as a soap box orator. Dressed in a wizard's robe and hat he would mount his step ladder in the middle of the square and proffer his views on life, politics and, well, just about everything else to all who would care to listen (and indeed those who did not).

Back on my first visit to Christchurch I happened across one of these public orations and joined an amused group of onlookers as The Wizard enlightened us on topics we didn't realise we didn't know. It was totally random, but quite entertaining and as with most 'street performance' you witness as a tourist, it was totally compelling.

Though now he is pretty much retired, it would seem that he makes occasional appearances in Christchurch during the summer months (theirs not ours), so listen out for him on a sunny day as you stroll through Cathedral Square.

Breakfast New Zealand style

2009-05-29T18:02:04+01:00

Following my gym visit this morning, I decided to reward myself with a relaxing breakie in a local cafe - one large latte and a very tasty bacon and egg sandwich later, I started to think another gym visit was in order, but I also began to reminise about the pleasure of breakfasting on holiday and specifically, on holiday in New Zealand!

Nothing makes me feel like I'm on holiday more than being able to enjoy a leisurely breakfast, especially when the locale is somewhat more inspiring than the average UK high street. The Viaduct Harbour in Auckland for one, with its array of cafes and restaurants and cosmopolitan atmosphere, conjurs up wonderfully indulgent memories as do thoughts of watching the morning sun wash over Mecury Bay in Whitianga on the Coromandel. Sun rise and breakfast al fresco are a great combination and one of the many benefits of travelling the east coast of New Zealand.

From Whakatane to Gisborne to Napier, Nelson to Kaikoura to Christchurch, where the River Avon makes a charming substitute for the ocean views, hot cakes (the most delectable pancakes covered in fruits and cream freche and honey/maple syrup and all other delicious things) and a flat white are my recommendation for enjoying your kiwi breakfast to the full!

Check out this blog for a great hot cake recipe.

Air New Zealand uncovered!

2009-05-14T11:59:51+01:00

You may recall remember my 'Heads Up' blog last September - the one about bald-headed advertising no less, whereby Air New Zealand found a novel way of utilising 'available' space to promote their brand to those queueing up at airport check-ins. Well, in terms of originality, they've done it again with a great new and rather audacious television advert currently airing in New Zealand.

Featuring a number of Air New Zealand staff wearing nothing more than body paint (uniform colours, naturally) and a smile, the ad has been created to promote the airlines fares and their 'no hidden extras' policy, such as extra fees for things like in-flight drinks or checking in.

Thanks to the wonders of online social networking you too can share in the delights of this 'revealing' new commercial. The accompanying music is a track by New Zealand singer Gin Wigmore entitled “Under my skin”.

Impressions of Te Papa

2009-05-01T17:26:04+01:00

For those visiting Wellington, Te Papa the national museum is most definitely worth a morning or afternoon of your time or go crazy and spend the whole day.

It really is a superlative museum and conveys the story of the 'Aotearoa' - its historical influences and the natural forces that shape the country - through a series of interactive experiences over five floors. It also looks pretty funky and is nicely situated on the waterfront, so there's pleny of scope to add n some cafe culture too!

And as an added bonus, until the 17 May Te Papa is hosting the largest collection of Impressionist paintings ever to come to New Zealand allowing visitors to enjoy over 55 paintings, which are part of a greater world heritage. Works on dipslay include Claude Monet’s Water Lily, Haystacks, and Rouen Cathedral series, alongside masterpieces by Renoir, Cézanne, Degas, and others.

Going Underground

2009-04-01T08:45:06+01:00

Following in the tradition of the Channel Tunnel that connects England with France, and the Seikan Tunnel, which connects the Japanese islands of Honshu and Hokkaido, New Zealand's two main islands are soon to be connected by an undersea tunnel. Plans are afoot to engineer a underground train link from the outskirts of Wellington on the North Island to the coastal town of Rarangi on the South Island.

Currently access between the North and South islands is across the Cook Strait by ferry. At its narrowest point the two islands are only 23km apart, but the ferry weaves a 70km path between Wellington Harbour and Picton via the Marlborough Sounds. The 3hr crossing can be rough across open water which is perhaps the trade-off for the highly enjoyable cruise through the picturesque Sounds.

However, this new tunnel, which is scheduled to open in 2015, will provide a high speed link between Wellington and Christchurch, New Zealand's second and third largest cities reducing travelling times by several hours.

It's sound plausible to me, I mean, the Channel Tunnel seemed like a pretty wacky idea when it was first suggested...but for now, across the water as opposed to under the water, remains the best link between North and South Islands. Happy 1st April.

Having a rail of a time!

2009-03-27T17:19:05+00:00

When it comes to getting around New Zealand, my preference is for driving my own vehicle. I like the total freedom this affords and I thoroughly enjoy cruising quiet and scenic roads. There is also something to be said for being able to personalise the glovebox and seatpockets with CD's, maps, drinks and snacks and, as the journey progresses, discarding various items of clothing and a shoe or two on the backseat... just in case!

Yet, hiring your own vehicle does not preclude all other forms of transport, which can make a pleasant change to driving. The fact that New Zealand is split into two main islands rather enforces this idea since we don't yet hire out amhibious vehicles! The natural break in driving as you hop on the ferry across the Cook Strait also allows the perfect opportunity to experience a small portion of NZ by rail - route dependent, of course.

The TranzCoastal runs daily from Picton to Christchurch (and vice versa) via Kaikoura. Conveniently it is timed to fit in with the InterIslander ferry crossing - so much so that you don't even have to collect you luggage from the ferry before boarding the train - it's done automatically (well, probably by human hand, but you know what I mean). All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride as you glide past the Kaikoura Ranges to one side and the Pacific Ocean to the other. You can break the journey in Kaikoura for a night or two to include a whale watch excursion before continuing to Christchurch. Here, you can pick up another car or defer your driving adventure a while longer taking the spectacular TranzAlpine over Arthurs Pass to Greymouth. Perfect!

Rail travel is not the fastest mode of transport in NZ, but, for the leisurely traveller, its comfortable and fun and as ever, the views are spectacular. And you needn't worry about photographs being marred by glass reflections, since the viewing car has glass-less windows - ideal for photographers...

The 'Big Yin' is back

2009-02-18T16:47:15+00:00

Billy's Connolly's adventure in the far north 'Journey to the Edge of the World', which airs on ITV this week is the latest in a series of travelogues from the Big Yin. Focusing on the Canadian Arctic, this series chronicles his journey through the vast Arctic region, from Nova Scotia across the fabled Northwest Passage to the Pacific Ocean and will be shown over 4 episodes starting at 9pm this Thursday 19 Feb on ITV1.

Back in 2004, we were treated to Billy's unique style of travel reporting interspersed with excerpts of his stand-up show as he toured New Zealand on his trade-mark 'trike'. From Invercargill to Auckland and a memorable jump off the Sky Tower, he showed viewers the quirky side of NZ. Inspired by this programme, we put together a special itinerary based on the places he visited and now it is back on our website.

Billy's Connolly - World Tour of New Zealand was the companion to his earlier series around Australia and both can be purchased on Amazon. And all Billy fans should definately check out his website...not sure how often its update, but fun nevertheless.

20 years of ups and downs!

2008-12-31T14:43:29+00:00

2009 has already begun in New Zealand, but here in the UK, there's still time for me to get one more post in under the 2008 banner. It's appropriate that I do so since it relates to the 20 year anniversary of that eponymous kiwi pastime - bungy jumping!

Beyond it's famous food exports and a passion for rugby, one of the first things I ever fully associated with New Zealand was bungy jumping. The frankly ridiculous pursuit of hurling oneself off a lofty platform with nothing more than a giant elastic band lashed to one's ankles is 20 years old this year, suggesting that it is anything other than a passing fad.

From the original 43m jump off Kawarau Bridge outside of Queenstown, AJ Hackett Bungy has become a global phenomonen and the jumps more and more extreme. In Queenstown alone intrepid (well that's one word for it) participants can choose from six 'experiences' including the ultimate 143m Nevis Bungy! Well, with 8.5 seconds of freefall, there's plenty of time to admire the glorious scenery.

Have a great New Year!

Giant Rugby Ball hits London

2008-11-21T13:37:06+00:00

It graced the Eiffel Tower for the duration of the Rugby World Cup in Paris last year and next week the Giant New Zealand Rugby Ball will be touching down in Potters Field Park near Tower Bridge.

In situ for one week only between 25th Nov and 2nd Dec, the Ball will be open to the public free of charge for the majority of these days. Go along and enjoy a multi-media experience that showcases the multitude of delights New Zealand has to offer.

The ball will provide the venue for the pool draw for next IRB World Cup taking place in New Zealand in 2011, but you don't need to be a rugby fan to visit. Sound and vision presentations aim to transport visitors to the other side of the of the world to sample kiwi environments, from the momentuous landscapes to Maori culture. This includes performances from Maori Performing Arts & Education Company, Manaia. In the words of Ben Fogle, how cool is that?!

For further information about opening times, visit the Tourism New Zealand's website. This is really an experience not to be missed and with the winter chill setting in, this is the perfect chance to contemplate warmer climes. Brrr!!

Jurassic Park

2008-11-14T19:08:23+00:00

It may be the youngest country on earth, but as it turns out, some of the inhabitants are anything but...

Tuatara eggs have been found by staff at Karori Wildlife Sanctuary in Wellington, which means these descendants of very rare, prehistoric reptiles that walked the earth with the dinosaurs, have been nesting on the New Zealand mainland for the first time in 200 years. As you'd expect with an award-winning wildlife sanctuary, the eggs (and the tuataras) are being well and truly left alone to do their own thing.

Karori Wildlife Sanctuary is less than 10 minutes drive from downtown Wellington, and is the world's first urban wildlife sanctuary. Its 225 hectars are home to some of New Zealand's rarest and most endangered wildlife including hihi (a beautiful bird the size of a sparrow), little spotted kiwi as well as our dinosaur chums. It's also a great spot for a picnic lunch - you'd have no idea you were in the country's capital!

Heads Up

2008-09-18T13:35:37+01:00

And in the wonderful world of quirky ideas, Air New Zealand has certainly taken the initiative when it
comes to branding and product placement.

New Zealand's excellent national airline are looking to recruit 70 bald travellers to have the back of their heads tattooed (temporarily I might add) and stand in lines at three airports so that the images can be read by those people lining up behind them. Ingenious!

With the enticement of NZ$1,000 I wonder how many razors will be coming out over next few weeks?

Winning Ways

2008-08-22T10:31:24+01:00

If you happen to be passing the Matterhorn in downtown Wellington (the website alone is beyond average) it might be worth your while stopping in for a bite. Wellington's popular bar on Cuba Street has just been voted best restaurant in the Cuisine NZ Restaurant of the Year Awards. So will the award go to their head making the bar too exclusive? It's unlikely, since it was also awarded Best Casual Dining - Metropolitan.

Another Wellington restaurant claimed the title last year, so I think its fair to say that fine dining is a given amongst Wellington's considerable list of attributes.

Speaking of winning - awards are being handed out aplenty in China's capital this month. Well, we weren't really going to get through August without me mentioning the Olympics at least once!

I think the 29th Olympiad has maintained the event's status as the 'greatest show on earth'. As GB celebrates its greatest medal haul in the modern era (I don't think the 1908 tally really offers fair comparison), the Kiwis are also celebrating a stellar performance with 9 medals collected so far (three golds, one silver and five bronze) and there's still 2 days to go... For a small nation, that's not bad.

Roll on 2012. And for anyone not infused with enthusiasm for the London games, just think - what a perfect time to take a holiday to New Zealand!

Winter in pictures

2008-08-06T09:56:52+01:00

The recent stormy weather that has hit New Zealand is atypical of the weather that normally characterises kiwi winters - where chilly nights often give way to bright, crisp days.

Winter really is a beautiful time of year in New Zealand. As the low light casts across the well-known magnificent scenery conditions prove great for photography - as captured in a series of pictures by Independent group photographer Hannah Bills.

'Australia and New Zealand in winter: a photographer's guide' by Peter and Hannah bills shows off the substantial appeal of the southern hemisphere in July.

"The traveller in Australia and New Zealand in mid-winter gleans some wonderful sights, as these pictures by show. In winter especially, there is a clarity to the late-afternoon light, that is nature’s aid to photographers. It shines so vividly and brightly shortly before it dies that images are magnified, perhaps glorified.

Shots taken on both north and south islands in New Zealand illustrate the natural beauty that is that country. Ducks are seen drifting effortlessly, in precise formation, across the lake at Christchurch’s Clearwater Resort against a backdrop of the setting sun. Intensely cold, mid-winter days in New Zealand, especially in the south island, often produce vivid blue skies to tempt the photographer".

From www.independent.co.uk, 31 July 2008

Airbourne in New Zealand

2008-07-25T09:27:51+01:00

Having just watched the video of a friend's recent skydiving exploits, I'm reminded of how much (curiously) I really want to try this activity for myself. Some years ago I watched similar footage of another friend taking the plunge in Taupo and immediately felt this was the place to make my tandem skydiving ambitions a reality. Why? Well it's just so New Zealand!

Adrenaline acts in high places are a common theme all over New Zealand, as well as a number of softer, yet equally lofty pursuits.

In Auckland, the southern hemisphere's tallest building provides an excellent jumping off point for well... jumping off! 192m straight down. Other visitors use the lift.

As previously mentioned, tandem skydiving is on offer in Taupo , as well as Queenstown and Wanaka, so participants can choose which spectacular views to admire on the descent - mountains and lakes or volcanoes and lakes.

Hot air ballooning is always a favourite and an activity I can heartily recommend. Gliding across the Canterbury Plains at sunrise is simply magical. I've yet to try ballooning over the vineyards of Hawkes Bays, but there is time.

There are other ways to reach new heights in New Zealand (or plunge from them) including bungy jumping, heli-hiking and all number of scenic flights, but in my opinion, nothing matches the thrill and the grace of hang-gliding (tandem of course). From the initial adrenaline surge of running off the edge of the Remarkables Range outside of Queenstown to suddenly finding myself silently soaring across the skies above the Wakatipu Basin this was an experience to savour.

Narnia or New Zealand?

2008-06-25T17:03:13+01:00

Prince Caspian, the second installment in the Narnia series, is officially released tomorrow nationwide (26 June) and by all accounts is a far darker and, dare I say, more grown up film than the original Narnia outing.

I've not yet seen this fantasy epic, but with its enticing trailer and some positive audience reviews I've read, I'm building up a healthy excitement. It also seems far too long ago that we got to marvel at the stunning New Zealand scenery on the big screen.

It's quite a lengthy film at nearly 2 hours 30 minutes, but having been propelled into a magical nether world (otherwise known as New Zealand), you don't want to return to reality too soon!